This paper discusses the types of readiness that are necessary for learning in science and how to assess them. Subject matter readiness refers to what students bring in terms of facts, concepts, generalizations, and principles to the new science lesson. Evaluating many aspects of student background, such as prior instruction, helps in the…

This paper discusses assessment in science in the context of current discussions of standards and high stakes testing. Setting standards is always challenging, and care is needed to make the standards for science achievement neither too high nor too low. States must be careful to establish standards that are clearly written and that have high…

The teacher needs to be certain that each student is able to read effectively to understand the science subject matter being emphasized in teaching and learning situations. In ongoing lessons and units in science, the teacher must use a variety of approaches, such as: prior to students reading science content, print the new vocabulary on the board…

A person can communicate more accurately by possessing a rich vocabulary, be it in listening, speaking, reading, or writing. Then too, students need a well developed vocabulary which is integrated across the entire curriculum. This paper focuses on the plethora of vocabulary terms in diverse curriculum areas, including social studies, science,…

Journal writing in science can be productive and stress basic skills. Students need to be highly motivated to engage in journal writing, and since the world of science fascinates most learners, chances for motivation are good. The subject matter to be written about needs to relate directly to the ongoing unit of study. Dramatizations, both formal…

Efficacy and its effects upon student achievement need nourishment. For a student to believe that he/she can and therefore does achieve needs fostering continuously within each student in the curriculum. With the tremendous emphasis being placed on reading instruction and student achievement by legislators and governors of individual states,…