The project Teaching Science with TOYS promotes toys as an ideal mechanism for science instruction, because they are an everyday part of the students' world and carry a user-friendly message. TOYS Teacher Resource Modules are collections of "TOYS" activities grouped around a topic or theme with supporting science content and pedagogical…

Noting that the growing concern among parents about the quality of their children's elementary science and mathematics education--reinforced by media reports on various educational controversies--contributes to a lack of understanding between teachers and parents, this book provides three parent education workshops designed to bridge the gap. The…

The purpose of this study was to determine if there was any quantitative or qualitative evidence indicating a need for science curriculum review in aligning district outcomes with the New Hampshire State Science Frameworks. Also examined were such exogenous factors as teachers' perception, attitudes and background preparation pertaining to science…

"How Students Learn: Science in the Classroom" builds on the discoveries detailed in the best-selling "How People Learn." Now these findings are presented in a way that teachers can use immediately, to revitalize their work in the classroom for even greater effectiveness. Organized for utility, the book explores how the principles of learning can…

Criticizes a proposed approach to teaching physics in terms of energy carriers (SE 532 196), arguing that it requires energy to be thought of as a substance which can flow. Discusses problems related to concept formation and logical difficulties with the curriculum, considering several contradictions to physics principles which may arise. (JM)

Provides general information about documents available from the U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO). Describes how to get materials from GPO bookstores and gives their locations. Discusses bibliographies and guides to documents available and provides annotated lists of 40 items appropriate for use in elementary and/or junior high schools. (JM)

Science materials reviewed include "TOPS" (an inquiry-based physical science program for grades five-eight consisting of 22 modules and three books, each covering a single topic) and "Come With Me Science Series" (interdisciplinary science units for grades K-three). Describes and assesses student/teacher materials, typical activities, and overall…

A meta-analysis was conducted of 65 studies related to relationships between science teacher background characteristics and either their classroom behavior or student outcomes. In general, low relationships were found between these characteristics and classroom teaching behavior and student outcome characteristics. Summary tables showing strongest…

Discusses San Francisco's Exploratorium, a science teaching center with 500 exhibits focusing on human perception, but extending to everything from the mechanics of voice to the art of illusion, from holograms to harmonics. The Exploratorium emphasizes "simple science" (refractions/resonances, sounds/shadows) to tune in the senses and turn on the…

Investigated effects of limited oral/physical teacher intervention on object manipulation by preschool/early elementary children (N=70). Experimental students had magnets placed in their hands and were orally invited to explore. Results indicated differences between experimental/control groups in time spent with objects, number of activities…

Effects of a sequence of two science content courses (earth science/biology and physical science) on preservice elementary teachers' attitude toward and anxiety about science teaching were examined. Results from two studies (1977-78, N=78 and 1978-79, N=71) indicate attitude/anxiety changed in a positive direction and continued in subsequent…

Seventy-one ideas for learning activities in the elementary school classroom are described. Activities are included in the areas of fine arts, mathematics, language arts, history, writing, listening skills, and science. (CJ)

Excerpts from the opinions of the Attorney General of Maryland on the constitutionality of this state's House Bill 1078 (balanced presentation of creationism/evolution) are presented. Indicates that the bill has as its purpose and effect the advancement of religion and would foster an excessive governmental entanglement with religion. (Author/JN)

Argues that the fight against creationism in public schools is essential to the preservation of First Amendment rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. Discusses how creationists, to avoid religious issues, are presenting the "creation-science" (pseudoscience) issue in terms of academic freedom and censorship. (Author/JN)

Discusses psychological applications for science curriculum and instruction, addressing difficulty in learning science (Piagetian theory); meaningful learning (reformulation, application, making use of prior knowledge, learner involvement); value of practical work (acquisition of skills, enhancing learning, motivation); and affective aspects…