This booklet is one of the "Understanding the Atom" Series. The science of spectroscopy is presented by a number of topics dealing with (1) the uses of spectroscopy, (2) its origin and background, (3) the basic optical systems of spectroscopes, spectrometers, and spectrophotometers, (4) the characteristics of wave motion, (5) the…

This study determined the effects that organization of a science curriculum would have on students' ability to apply the concepts comprising that curriculum. A test was designed by the investigator to measure behaviors of concept application. An experimental group consisted of students in a professional science education course while the control…

Contained are a collection of science activities based upon forty-six scientific concepts related to space science. These activities are designed for junior high school science, but a much wider grade level range of use is possible. The booklet is primarily intended for teacher use. Each series of concept-oriented activities is independent of the…

The general procedures used to develop educational objectives for the National Assessment of Educational Progress are outlined, as are the procedures used to develop science objectives. Four primary objectives of science education are stated: "Know fundamental facts and principles of science"; "possess the abilities and skills…

The purpose of this paper is to expose communication theorists to the concept of planning and to accentuate three specific types of scientific planning: dialectic, delphi, and participatory online. Divided into three sections, contents include a historical overview of the study of planning, which consists of definitions centering on the dualistic…

This publication, written for citizens and professional educators, releases about 40 percent of the data describing what groups of Americans know and can do in the area of science. Nine-year old elementary (28,000), thirteen-year old junior high (28,000), and senior high students were tested. In addition 10,000 adults, ages 26-35, were involved.…

Conclusions of an extensive project aimed to prepare lessons and associated materials related to teaching concepts included in the scheme "The Particle Nature of Matter" for grades two through six are presented. The hypothesis formulated for the project was that children in elementary schools can learn theoretical concepts related to the particle…

A test of one aspect of scientific creativity, the ability to formulate hypotheses to account for research findings, was given to 400 college students, along with ability and personality measures. Scores for quantity and quality of hypotheses were reliable and showed evidence of construct validity. Both quantity and quality feedback had their…

This study was an experimental evaluation of achievement in understanding interdisciplinary science concepts by ninth grade students enrolled in two different integrated science courses. The experimental group used "Investigating the Earth", the textbook/laboratory program, developed by the Earth Science Curriculum Project (ESCP) staff.…

Twenty second- and third-grade children were tested on their ability to make judgements of certain area and volume equivalences. The children were then presented a conservation-of-liquid task. Of the 17 children who gave correct conservation responses, only two had solved the area and volume problems. Thus, contrary to what is suggested by…

Reviewed are 14 studies pertaining to teaching and learning the nature of science. A brief "digest" is prepared of each study, listing author/source, subjects, problem, instruments used, and findings. Conclusions supported by the findings of these studies are made regarding the inadequate levels of understanding of science teachers of the nature…

Points out that the components of a corporation are analogous to structures in cells and that this analogy can be an effective teaching tool to clarify this scientific concept. (LS)

Traces the history of the discovery of spin and its place in quantum mechanics. (MLH)

Traces the history of the development of spin and wave mechanics. (MLH)

Using examples this article tries to dispel a common misconception that theories "mature" into laws by constant testing and confirmation. (GA)