Described are the results of surveys concerning children's use of outdoor areas. Discusses design criteria for outdoor education areas for children. Provides suggestions for enhancing children's exposure to wildlife. Considers playgrounds, trails, backyards and neighborhood areas. (CW)

Reviewed are computer software packages: "Where in Time Is Carmen Sandiego,""The Bio Sci Videodisc," and "Bio Sci Stacks." Included are hardware requirements, costs, emphasis, grade level, and availability. Functions of the packages are discussed including strengths and weaknesses and teaching suggestions. (CW)

Compared were the integrated process skills of American youngsters who studied for several years in an activity-based, materials-oriented program to a group of Japanese pupils who studied in a similar program and to an American group whose program was textbook oriented. Implications are discussed. (Author/CW)

Summarizes two initiatives from the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the National Science Foundation to reform science education. The initiatives propose (1) a restructuring of undergraduate college curricula to present science as one of the liberal arts and (2) developing systematic statewide initiatives in science,…

Described is a program which includes a teacher workshop, visits by scientists to science classes, free public lectures, and a school district science fair. The cooperation of schools, industry, teachers, and the community is stressed. Details of the teacher workshop are provided. (CW)

Explores how constructivism is important to changes taking place in physics education, especially in curriculum development and teaching. Presents an example illustrating children's conceptions of light. Twenty-six references are listed. (YP)

Investigates whether elementary children can compare forces by comparing numbers of weights used in spring and balance problems. Reports that children did not identify weight and force, but they were able to use the ratio between the numbers of weights to compare forces. Suggests some instructional methods based on the findings. (YP)

Reviewed are seven computer software packages for IBM and/or Apple Computers. Included are "Windows on Science: Volume 1--Physical Science"; "Science Probe--Physical Science"; "Wildlife Adventures--Grizzly Bears"; "Science Skills--Development Programs"; "The Clean Machine"; "Rock Doctor";…

The results of a survey of science teachers from southern Illinois and western Kentucky regarding their perceptions of science-related social issue goal statements are presented. Recommendations based on this survey are discussed. (CW)

Describes a lesson in science in which students conduct an experiment involving quantitative variables. Outlines the scientific method and the use of ratios to solve proportional reasoning problems. (RT)

Described are science activities in which students concentrate on their senses and make discoveries with their eyes, ears, noses, mouths, and hands. Suggested experiments include activities involving cooking, tasting, observing, floating and sinking objects, making rain, and stringed musical instruments. (RT)

Describes the purpose and preparation of a science unit box which contains materials, ideas, and resources for more effective science teaching. Lists and explains the 14 basic components that each box should contain including behavioral objectives, manipulatives, science concept and process list, and lesson plans. (RT)

Describes an underwater expedition which will allow students to participate in activities without being physically present. Provides a list of participating museums and examples of activities from curriculum materials which include a poster, bathymetric map, and 25 lessons. (RT)

Outlines steps for involving problem students in discovery-oriented science activities. States that planning is the basis for an effective lesson. (RT)

Presents a many-faceted learning approach to the study of crystals. Provides instructions for performing activities including crystal growth and patterns, creating miniature simulations of crystal-containing rock formations, charcoal and sponge gardens, and snowflakes. (RT)