Discusses questioning techniques and problem solving approaches for a sixth grade elementary school physical science activity using dry ice. Sequential steps of analysis and synthesis and supportive science demonstrations necessary for closure on Why" type questions are emphasized. (JM)

Surveyed 296 Illinois environmental educators on effectiveness of instructional strategies in environmental education and how often a given strategy is used. Results of questionnaires (117 returned) indicate that teachers tend to use less effective methods (lecture, teacher-led discussions) rather than those they consider more effective (inquiry,…

Proposes a method of teaching literature that not only leads students to understand and enjoy a poem or story but also helps them to relate personally to the work they are reading. (FL)

Facts about the geological formation and modern functions of Niagara Falls are given in this article, the second in a series about natural wonders. Questions for class discussion, directions for making a model waterfall, possible writing topics, and resources for further information about waterfalls are included. (PP)

Presents highlights from a paper which was delivered at a seminar concerned with science education in elementary schools. The specific focus of the seminar was the possibility of developing process skills through the teaching of science in elementary schools, the means of assessing such skills, and the implications of so doing for teacher training…

Subject matter in general education is simply the vehicle for instruction. Beyond the disciplines themselves, general education should provide seven forms of competency: vocabulary, learning skills, methods of inquiry, perspective, understanding of limitations, ability to find implications, and sensitivity. (MSE)

Presented is an overview of two types of inquiry which may be used in literature study: inquiry concerning the formal, rhetorical, and semantic features of the text and inquiry generated by the individual's response to the work. The effects of these strategies on students' higher-order cognition are considered. (Author/SJL)

Presents abstracts of films and cassettes for the elementary school dealing with basic safety, bicycle safety, electrical safety, emergencies and how to deal with them, fire and holiday safety, playground safety, poisons, school and bus safety, signs and signals, skateboard and water safety. (CS)

Seventy fifth and sixth grade students were randomly assigned to one of two instructional groups. Instruction for both groups was implemented within similar high-level questioning environments. However, in one group the teacher elicited more high-level student responses per question posed than was the case in the second group. (Author)

Three models were conceptualized for facilitating student-directed learning: teacher-guided, group-planned, and individual-oriented. Undergraduates in an educational psychology course were studied using the Involvement Behavior Questionnaire and the Inquiry Fluency Task. All three experimental treatments encouraged student involvement. The…

Lists ten characteristics for a suitable focus topic for open-ended science problems. Examples of appropriate focus statements in the areas of life, earth, and space science are included. Discusses options open to teacher and student in providing open-ended learning. (CS)

This study investigated the effects of a self-questioning intervention for Israeli kindergartners. Researchers used theory-based interventions (active processing and metacognitive intervention) and traditional methods to facilitate questioning, story comprehension, and self-directed learning. Theory-based training proved to be the most…

Outlines a teaching strategy designed to promote hands-on, inquiry-type learning. This strategy is based on constructivist principles and reflects much of the current understanding of how children learn science. Contains 31 references. (DDR)

Argues for the need to provide students with independent scientific research experiences to explore scientific developments that have changed their world. Enables students to develop minds-on science skills through scientific inquiry. (DDR)