Explains a series of experiments that enable students to discover the internal and external structure of the vanilla pod, isolate the chemical constituents of the pod, identify vanillin in the pod extract, and compare extracts across varieties of vanilla. (DDR)

Attempts to document and characterize the state of U.S. mathematics and science curricula, textbooks, and teaching practices and place them in a cross-national context. Discusses unfocused curricula and textbooks, how teachers deal with the splintered vision, teacher effectiveness, expectations from students, the impact of reform, and…

Presents the idea that several points should be considered in animal dissection: (1) ethics; (2) the animal's position; (3) the law; and (4) the actual benefits to society. Recommends that students be carefully prepared for animal dissection. Contains 21 references. (DDR)

Discusses the use of Windows on Science, a laser disc-based video program used by elementary schools for science curriculum. Results of a teacher survey (which is appended) indicate that teachers felt the program was ineffective used as the sole curriculum but was a useful supplement to discovery-based, hands-on activities. Teacher training is…

Provides outdoor homework assignments that are hands-on learning activities covering all academic areas and requiring very little material or expertise. Activities can be adapted for grades 1-6 and should be evaluated on the basis of effort, creativity, presentation, and the amount of information gathered. Contains 16 references. (DDR)

Describes a curriculum designed around a series of investigative, macroscopic problems that enable students to learn the big picture of modern biology for themselves. Presents a hands-on investigative activity that gives students an accurate, easily grasped analogy for DNA expression. (JRH)

Provides activities that explore the concept of solubility using correction fluid. Topics include oil versus water solubility and whole milk versus fat-free milk. (DDR)

Describes some inquiry-based labs in which students identify starch in popped popcorn, then determine whether starch is present in the kernels prior to them being cooked. Students distinguish monocot and dicot stems as well as determining whether boiling kills tissues in seeds that have been soaked in water. (DDR)

Computer technology has afforded opportunities to design science curriculum experiences that capitalize on hypertext environments. Though these settings may provide students with flexibility as they explore science, the question remains, Does science inherently favor sequential approaches to curriculum? Addresses the tension this creates using an…

Discusses historical views of the atom. Presents the philosophical view, the chemist's view, the physicist's view, the theorist's view, the quantum mechanical view, and the modern view. (Contains 24 references.) (DDR)

Reports on a study that emerged from a concern that despite 20 years of theorizing about the practice of environmental education in Australian schools, it continues to be marginalized in the curriculum. Provides data on these understandings and reports study outcomes with regard to partner groups. (Contains 25 references.) (Author/NB)

Identifies certain conceptions regarding the science content studied by students aged 9-11 years and develops a strategy for altering these conceptions. Reviews research on misconceptions and defines action research. (DDR)

Describes organizing a science day which includes having a statement of purpose, the organization of the day, details about the activities, and specific outcomes for the day. Recommends varying the activities for different levels. (DDR)

Examines the dip in achievement and interest in science that many students experience as they move into secondary schools. Explores the reasons for this phenomenon and possible solutions. (DDR)

This article proposes incorporating principles of universal design into elementary school science programming. Advantages include increasing access to the general education curriculum, enhancing student progress in science, and framing the general education curriculum to make it more appropriate for students with disabilities. Of five models of…