Describes problem-solving activities in the Unified Sciences and Mathematics for Elementary Schools (USMES) and Elementary Science Study (ESS) programs. Indicates that these curricula serve as excellent sources of activities to develop and improve their students' problem-solving skills. (Author/JN)

Investigates the effects upon concept acquisition of giving second-grade children the verbal labels of science concepts with which they have had concrete experience in a classroom setting using the interaction and evidence of interaction concepts from the Science Curriculum Improvement Study (SCIS). (HM)

The purpose of this study was to determine if alternative modes of science methods instruction differentially affect pre-service elementary teachers: (1) beliefs about science teaching; (2) general attitudes toward teaching; and (3) beliefs about the relative importance of specific teacher behaviors. The subjects were 90 students enrolled in three…

Presents basic guidelines for classroom control and discipline for teachers using new science programs that encourage independent study and hands-on activities. (MA)

Presented are the results of an exploratory study in which methods used in research on teaching were adapted to research on elementary school science teaching. An observation system was designed that enabled an observer to record detailed, context-specific information about the behavior of teachers (N=22) and students in grades 2-5 during…

This program is the result of efforts made to develop a preparation model for elementary teachers. The science component of the program is referred to as SODIA-Science which is derived from the first letters of descriptive words: Self, Others, Discipline, Implementation, and Associate teaching. These words describe the emphasis at each level of…

To summarize the implemented program, this report makes use of the practice profile. Inputs, processes, and outputs statements are the ideals for the practice profile and are adapted from the outputs stated in the Discrepancy Evaluation Model. The major project components are: (1) "Critical Mass" (which is what is needed before the…

Results of 11 studies of classroom practices used with activity-based elementary science programs were combined quantitatively using a composite category system. One finding reported is that teachers trained in program use spent less time talking and more on activities than untrained teachers using the programs. (Author/JM)

This booklet examines some of the ways in which integration of science and mathematics might be viewed and achieved in the elementary curriculum. Several existing programs that exemplify the integration of science and mathematics are reviewed. Programs include Activities Integrating Mathematics and Science (AIMS), Great Explorations in Math and…

Compared performance on Piagetian tasks to determine differences between students (N=52): (1) external subjects having access to manipulatives and those not having access, and between internal subjects having access to manipulatives and those not having access. Indicates access to manipulatives benefits those exhibiting externality with respect to…

Provides evidence indicating that activity-based science programs substantially improve performance in science process/creativity; modestly increase performance on tests of logic, perception, language development, science content, and mathematics; modestly improve attitude toward science and science class; and have pronounced benefits for…

In this study, worksheets were adapted from an Elementary Science Study unit, "Batteries and Bulbs," to develop an individualized set of instructional materials on electricity. Research questions were asked regarding relationships of teaching technique (individualized v conventional) to achievement and attitudes, gender, and interactions…

Indiana University college teacher discusses undergraduate science education and effective teaching in introductory courses. The method recommended by educator Arnold Arons trades passive lecture for hands-on learning and Socratic dialogue. Indiana University began a successful research program which brought Arons' method to large-enrollment…

Determines if elementary teachers' (N=138) understanding of SCIS concepts and teaching strategies change as a result of a televised inservice program using confidence levels as a criterion for understanding. Findings indicate that an inservice program consisting of televised sessions significantly improves teachers' understanding of SCIS concepts…

Described is an elementary school science program developed by the Biological Sciences Curriculum Study entitled "Science for Life and Living: Integrating Science, Technology and Health." Discussed are the rationale, unifying themes, organization, teaching model, implementation, development, production, and support for this program. (CW)