Contains several study methods using ferns. Includes exercises on fern propagation, gametophytes and fern hybrids, fern collection, microscope use, asexual reproduction, and fern photography. Background information describes identification techniques and the alternation of generations phenomenon. (MCO)

Twelve U.S. experts on energy policies individually offer perspectives about which priorities should be enlisted with respect to the current energy policy of the United States. In their analyses, these experts unanimously agree that the biggest U.S. problem is an increasing dependence upon imported oil. (JJK)

Survey responses from a stratified sample, across school type, of Israeli tenth graders (n=544) indicate that informal and nonformal science activities are associated with a distinctive commitment to science and science learning. Further, school conditions, home influences, and career aspirations appear to mediate the decision to participate in…

Presents an activity that models the changes in the concentration of carbon dioxide gas in the atmosphere during the last 200 years as determined from glacial records. (PR)

Explains interrelationships between geography and social studies. Highlights developments affecting school geography since 1980. Determines that geography's spatial perspective distinguishes it from other social sciences. Examines 10 presuppositions of geography education to reveal geography's scope, role, and relevance to social education.…

Describes an activity where students generate a plan and test their ideas on trying to cope with a small oil spill. (PR)

Describes the SCI-LINK Project that explored ways of linking research scientists and school science teachers. From the evaluation of the project, it is concluded that it helped teachers have a better understanding of scientific environmental research and recent findings. It also allowed teachers to develop activities and other instructional…

The case study of community service learning (CSL) by an interdisciplinary team at a middle school in Springfield (Massachusetts) provides information about what happens when teachers integrate community services into the curriculum as an instructional strategy. Community theater management and environmental lobbying projects illustrate issues in…

Results of action research involving 30 middle school students from Detroit indicated that all the students were concerned about classic environmental issues. Three ways of thinking about pollution and environmental problems emerged: (1) the personalistic view; (2) the technocratic view; and (3) the politicized view. (Contains 40 references.) (MDH)

Ontario Agri-Food Education's curriculum unit, "From Both Sides," applies a cooperative-learning method of conflict resolution to environmental issues. Two groups of students are assigned polar views on an issue such as pesticide use. Five steps involve preparing and presenting a position, refuting opposing positions, reversing…

Discusses benefits of incorporating cross-cultural perspectives into environmental science and natural resources training: more productive interactions between tribal governments and environmental scientists, policymakers, and managers; cross-cultural examination of value systems; protection of indigenous knowledge; and increased participation of…

Howard Gardner defines naturalists as persons who recognize flora and fauna and other consequential distinctions in the natural world and use this ability productively. A sixth-grade teacher discusses Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences, specifically the naturalist intelligence, and suggests ways to teach the naturalist intelligence through…

A university-based researcher and a grade seven teacher collaborated to plan a science curriculum that would help elementary school students discover the world of salmon and understand its life cycle. Describes key components of the salmon-enhancement program and river-health project. A student's record of hatching chum fry in the classroom is…

Outlines the advantages to students of participation in a student-scientist partnership. Focuses on a collaborative forest watch project which enables students to meet state and national standards throughout the curriculum and provides teachers with the academic and material support to accomplish this. (DDR)

Provides general information on the Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE) Program. Discusses the program design and development, science and education, the GLOBE computer and communications systems, student-scientist partnerships, and explains how to join the GLOBE program. (DDR)