New social studies materials are based on inquiry modes of learning and teaching; however, little is known as to what students actually learn from an inquiry model (except for cognitive knowledge). An inquiry model and test to measure the "unmeasurable" in the social studies--namely, a student's ability to use the scientific process,…

The experimental 1973-74 edition of Unit V consists of 35 life science curriculum activities intended for 13- to 16-year-old educable mentally handicapped adolescents. The role of the teacher in continuing field trials is noted and environmental themes and elements, inquiry skills, problem solving skills, and applicational behaviors and attitudes…

These selections were chosen to give practical, understandable answers to several questions concerning concept teaching. What are concepts? Why teach them? How can concepts be taught? What are the implications of teaching? Here concept teaching implies: 1) developing the learners ability to conceptualize; 2) evolving more complex…

The relationship between teacher questions and a series of supervisory conferences designed to modify those questions from recall and recognition to higher levels of comprehension was investigated. Five Toronto, Ontario, third-grade teachers were randomly selected to participate in the study, and their progress was recorded through individual…

Strategies suggested in this handbook provide ways for the intermediate grade teacher and the class to share in summarizing and analyzing educational developments associated with "Man: A Course of Study (MACOS)". The evaluation devices focus on pupils' perceptions and critical insights to develop their ability to explore questions about…

The team assigned to develop a unit of study on Urbanization chose to examine a small town in Canada as a means of creating better understanding of urban growth, problems, and solutions. The general purpose was to develop in students an increased awareness of their own community by giving them an opportunity to observe, experience and participate…

Discusses the gender differences revealed on the science content items of the National Assessment of Educational Progress Science Assessment. Examines explanations for the differences, including differential prior instruction, differential response to uncertainty, differential response to figurally presented items, and different attitudes toward…

Presents the results of a comparative study of Canada and Israel. Science achievements based on data collected in the Second International Science Study are examined. Also the intended and translated curriculum are considered. The populations of the study, results of the study, and the similarities between students are described. (CW)

Presents the problem of evaluating teaching, especially in science education. Gives examples of science teaching skills that are difficult to evaluate. Gives examples of individual solutions being used. Announces a National Science Teachers Association survey of teacher evaluation and standards. (CW)

Demonstrates how a spreadsheet program can do calculations, freeing students to question, analyze data and learn science. Notes several popular spreadsheet programs. Gives an example using Lotus 1-2-3 spreadsheets for a sampling experiment in Biology. Shows other examples of spreadsheet use in laboratory activities. (CW)

Describes four classroom activities that deal with a variety of scientific concepts. Discusses lessons on the cycles of matter in ecosystems, the calculation of the height of tall objects, bleaching techniques for bones, and the effects of force on sound when closing doors. (TW)

Maintains that teaching strategies which seek to develop reasoning skills in children, especially those using a "collaborative inquiry approach," must be based on enhancing children's self esteem. Inadequate teacher training and the predominate "authority/knowledge-based" view of education are identified as major reasons for…

Reports an investigation into pupil-talk in small groups during a computer simulation. The role of language as a communication and understanding aid is considered, along with the microcomputer's potential as a stimulus to and generator of discussion. The contents of participants' conversations, at and away from the microcomputer, are analyzed.…

In this activity, secondary history students study Canadian economic history during the 1914-1919 period and analyze information to resolve the question "What were the motives of the leaders of the Winnipeg general strike?" (RM)

Reviews several societal, institutional, and practical reasons why the new social studies of the 1960s and 70s failed to supplant traditional textbook instruction in America's public schools. Many of the theoretical underpinnings of the inquiry approach are presented along with critical comments regarding the shortcomings of established expository…