The main objective of the study was to determine Pre-service Chemistry Teachers' (PCTs) understanding of isomerism related concepts of Aliphatic Hydrocarbons (AHs). To get in-depth picture of PCTs understanding on isomerism related concepts of AHs, case study was employed. The sample for this study consisted of twelve participants selected from 87…

Concept comprehension is an important foundation for more complex thoughts. To enhance concept comprehension, teachers of traditional classrooms have been using instructional strategies and specific course designs, which have been proven effective. It initiates a hypothesis that integrating instructional strategies in the course designs of an…

Presents instructions to build a device that helps students see the effects of the ultraviolet radiation around them. Suggests ways to utilize the device. (MDH)

First of a series showing ways in which the preschool setting can provide exploratory activities for the young child seeking to become acquainted with the world about him. Suggests ways to present the concepts of climate, clean air, personal space, and noise level. (EB)

Discusses three possible methods of thinking about the implications of the definitions of the Avogadro constant and number. Indicates that there is only one way to arrive at a simple and standard conclusion. (CC)

Replies are given to students' complaints about their physics textbook, "PHYSICS, Principles and Problems" (Merrill, Bell & Howell). Indicates wrong answers to some of the problems in the book. Discusses several topics identified by the students. (YP)

Observes 16 students from five elementary science classes to examine how students use tools when constructing new knowledge during science instruction, how control of tools is actualized from pedagogical perspectives, how language and tool accessibility intersect, how gender intersects with tool use, and how competition for resources impacts…

Described are features of a theoretical model for fluid pressure. Analyzes six introductory physics textbooks based on an introduction and meaning of the pressure concept; characteristics of pressure; and liquid as a pressure transmitter. Presents three models of pupils' conceptions. (YP)

Normal adolescents, retarded adolescents, and high ability second-graders were compared on their abilities to master high and low structure science materials. An increase of structure was found to be related to recall for all groups, but to be of particular importance for the retarded adolescents. (CP)

This study explored the usefulness of an approach to science instruction which specifically considered children's spontaneous conceptions about natural phenomena. The aim of the instruction was the development of conceptual understanding. The instructional approach involved diagnosing children's spontaneous conceptions, making them aware of their…

Discusses the design of introductory physics course for elementary education majors and nonscience majors. Describes the learning cycle used for constructing hands-on activities. Provides an example of a week's activity on energy. Presents an evaluation of the course based on examinations and the teacher's impressions. (YP)

Examines 11 elementary science texts in terms of conceptual structure and reasoning demands using concept maps. Reports that (1) the conceptual structures vary widely across texts; (2) most of the structures are well defined; and (3) the reasoning demands are above the developmental capabilities of most of primary-level children. (Author/YP)

This study examines the extent to which some students comprehend four integrated science textbooks and the relationships among their grade level, gender, school location and type, and ability to comprehend the texts. Jamaican high school students (N=160) were the subjects of the study which involved data sources such as cloze, comprehension,…

Reports on an attempt to bring about conceptual change in children's concept of speed by the teaching of the science of speed emphasizing an integrated hands-on experience. Reports that it may be possible to modify naive conceptions by teaching that targets particular concepts. (Author/YP)