Describes soil mechanics as quite interesting and a pedagogically useful topic in which to present and analyze many concepts in physics. (Author/CCM)

Presents an alternative experimental arrangement that results in a considerable cost savings by reducing the number of sensors and other apparati required while giving excellent quantitative results for comparison with theory. (Author/CCM)

Presents the concept of using Einstein the man as a way of generating interest in the study of physics among students. Finds that it provides an instantly recognizable face for science, thus a gateway to the subject through the discussion of the man. (Author/CCM)

Suggests guidelines for evaluating and organizing Websites on scientific concepts that are developed from definitions of science literacy and science information literacy. Includes a sample webilography and a sample search strategy on the topic of acoustical oceanography. (Author/LRW)

Considers substance identity and pupils' interaction with the scientific idea of melting and boiling behavior as a means for identification and assessment of purity. Presents evidence that suggests that children do not naturally have a concept of substance identity that allows them to recognize chemical change as a possibility. (Contains 31…

Provides insights into the design of effective educational planning conversations derived from the metaphor of enthalpy (the amount of heat energy released when chemical reactions occur). Interprets enthalpy changes in the context of energy and the dynamics necessary to sustain an effective systems design conversation. (AEF)

Analyzes environmental knowledge of high school students using a national probability sample. Results indicate that students can recognize basic facts regarding environmental issues but are unable to apply this knowledge to comprehend consequences or solutions related to the problems. Contains 20 references. (DDR)

Addresses the problem of the compatibility of science and religion, and its bearing on science and religious education, challenges the popular view that science and religion are compatible or complementary. Discusses differences at the doctrinal, metaphysical, methodological, and attitudinal levels. Argues that religious education should be kept…

Presents an example of a take-home discovery-based activity that supplements the lecture component of a general chemistry course. Involves the student in chemistry exploration outside the class. Extends the context of content and experimentation into a nontraditional laboratory environment. Reports that students find the challenges useful in…

Describes and discusses an approach to teaching elementary thermodynamics that focuses on promoting and consolidating conceptual change in the classroom toward the accepted scientific view. Reports that this approach enabled a significant proportion of the student group involved to demonstrate understanding of the key ideas as evidenced in…

Describes a stimulating interactive group project on measuring the lengths of solar days that directly supports concepts related to orbits, motion, and time in a physics or astronomy curriculum, and has the flexibility to extend from a few days to several weeks. Provides new measurement experiences for students and teachers and opportunities for…

Describes a fifth-grade science classroom where students were asked to invent an operational definition of matter and validate that definition by designing and implementing a variety of tests. Challenges students to confront their misunderstandings about matter and move beyond merely reciting a definition. (JRH)

Describes an activity that uses a simulation of glacial movement to stimulate middle school students' interest in geology. (JRH)

Describes a unit involving the study of birds in order to help students become more aware of and appreciate their natural surroundings. (MKR)

Discusses a game and related activities to help students develop observation and inference skills. (MKR)