This article discusses the paucity of gifted females taking advanced math and science courses and the widening gender gap in computer science courses and the information and technology (IT) field. A list of Internet resources that examine this issue is provided, along with resources for fostering IT skills in girls. (CR)

Describes changes in literacy engagement during Concept-Oriented Reading Instruction (CORI), a new approach to teaching reading, writing, and science that emphasizes real-world science observations, student self-direction, strategy instruction, collaborative learning, self-expression, and coherence of literacy learning experiences. Finds that…

Discusses the collaborative approach of the Rocky Mountain Teacher Education Collaborative to helping preservice teachers develop pedagogical content knowledge. Describes a course in the teaching of chemistry that was believed to be key in the development of pedagogical content knowledge. Highlights assessment and reactions to the course. (JRH)

Argues against the merely descriptive presentation frequently used in teaching biochemistry and in favor of a constructivist approach called heuristic-teleonomic, which unites the process of discovery with adaptation to functional ends. Discusses difficulties inherent to the nature of biochemistry, including the conflict between acquiring…

Reports on a study that explored alternative ways of presenting chemistry in junior high schools through the use of an attitude survey taken by students (N=593). Analyzes and discusses student suggestions for curriculum, teaching strategies, and learning environments. Contains 15 references. (DDR)

Discusses the implications of several studies of science education practices. Concludes that although students in the United States are performing better than they were a decade ago, students are not performing well enough to meet the challenges of the 21st century. (DDR)

Describes an earth science unit in which students study soil from their own backyards through a series of integrated activities. Introduces several earth science concepts, including local geology and the development of different types of geological regions. Presents activities to make a county soil map, measure moisture in soil, and measure the…

Describes a collaboration between librarians and the biology department to create a science information literacy component in a general biology laboratory. Outlines the objectives, planning, and execution of the program. Both forms of evaluation of the program--judging the quality of students' final reports and a student feedback…

Discussion of inquiry and technology within elementary and secondary school science curriculum focuses on WISE (Web-Based Inquiry Science Environment) that was developed to provide effective designs for inquiry activities and assessments, technology supports for students and teachers, authoring partnerships to create a library of inquiry projects,…

Describes an interdisciplinary course focusing on modeling scientific systems. Investigates elementary education majors' applications of three artificial intelligence concepts used in modeling scientific systems before and after the course. Reveals a great increase in understanding of concepts presented but inconsistent application. (Author/KHR)

Described is an extracurricular organization for future science teachers at the undergraduate level. The formation, activities, and service projects of the group are discussed. The benefits of this type of group to preservice science teachers is stressed. (CW)

Computer programs covering several subject areas and grade levels are reviewed. The programs include multimedia courseware, simulations, and interactive software. Teaching tips which suggest methods of utilizing the programs are offered. (IAH)

Outlined is a specific computer application which can be used to analyze data on plant community composition from the point quarter sampling method. Procedures, examples of spreadsheets prepared in this manner, and evaluation of the activity are presented. (CW)

The use of living animals in the classroom is discussed. A checklist of ideas to remember when considering housing animals in the classroom is provided. (CW)

The articles in this feature support the view that history and philosophy are useful to science instruction. Topics include the history of science teaching, the role of science textbooks, the relationship between science and the humanities, and a bibliography on history, philosophy, and science teaching. (IAH)