In the summer of 2009, 22 African American middle school students in eastern North Carolina became participants in the Reach Up program to increase the number of underrepresented students participating in science-, technology-, engineering-, and mathematics-related activities. One of the goals of the program was for these students to participate…

The author felt comfortably settled in her career. She had been teaching middle school science for seven years. She attended cutting-edge classes in college, received a master's degree in educational technology, earned a license in administration, and had attended a variety of classes and professional development workshops. Looking back, she…

Nothing brings out the best in eighth-grade physical science students quite like an engineering challenge. The wind turbine design challenge described in this article has proved to be a favorite among students with its focus on teamwork and creativity and its (almost) sneaky reinforcement of numerous physics concepts. For this activity, pairs of…

Incorporating computer-simulation modelling into project-based learning may be effective but requires careful planning and implementation. Teachers, especially, need pedagogical content knowledge which refers to knowledge about how students learn from materials infused with technology. This study suggests that students learn best by actively…

In this study we examined curriculum integration in new ways by exploring the link between classroom context, the implementation of community-based, integrated science projects, and the subsequent student learning. The literature is inconsistent regarding the benefits of an integrated approach to curriculum. The research design was a multiple case…

Presents a learning project in which students prepare a guided, multisensory rain forest tour representing its ecology. Develops five stop points presenting a theme or an important aspect of the rain forest. Includes a list of selected resources for rain forest studies. (YDS)

This research was conducted in an eastern Tennessee 8th grade science classroom with 99 students participating. The action research project attempted to examine an adolescent science student's integration of science concepts within a project-based setting using the multiple intelligence theory. In an effort to address the national science…

More than 200 videos, produced primarily by students, have circulated to families since a Virginia middle school's Home Visions Program began during the 1997-98 school year. Videos show students and teachers in action and contain valuable information on how parents can help their child succeed academically. Science projects figure prominently.…

This book of more than 160 environmental science activities is designed to help students understand environmental issues, ask questions, and find solutions to the problems. Introductory sections address: (1) the nature of major global problems and a history of environmental concern; (2) basic environmental science terminology and scientific study…

Presents comments on problems voiced by teachers about conducting science fairs with middle school children, also cites some advantages of science fairs. A list of simple experiments is offered that are considered within the interests and intellectual range of middle school children. (Author/EB)

Presents an introduction to a unit on the periodic table in which students are asked to assume the roles of the element families. (MKR)

Students should have some experience with science carried out over time periods of several months or an entire school year. Presents suggestions to help teachers start their own bank of ideas for long-term science activities. (PR)

Presents detailed descriptions and diagrams for having students build their own hot air balloons. Describes the educational benefits of the balloon building. (PR)

Presents detailed descriptions and diagrams for having students build their own miniature box kites. Describes the educational benefits of the kite building. (PR)

Investigates performance outcomes based on different goal orientations by using a computer support environment (SCI-WISE) designed for learning and doing inquiry-based science projects. Uses two versions of SCI-WISE software and systems based partly on the theoretical framework of levels of agency and goal orientation. (Contains 16 references.)…