In this activity, students investigate the accuracy of sundials and the discrepancy that lies between "real time" and "clock time". The position of the sun is tracked over the course of a relatively short period of time as students make a shadow plot, a horizontal sundial, and a diptych sundial. This activity requires…

This curriculum unit revolves around the intriguing nature of dry ice and the incessant curiosity it provokes in all those who have the opportunity to interact with it. The activities featured in this book guide students toward being able to conduct their own independent scientific inquiry while presenting strong scientific content. Activities…

This digest presents a summary discussion of the value of holding science fairs in the elementary school context. Reasons for conducting science fairs for elementary students are discussed in terms of several learning theories. Developmentally appropriate types of elementary science projects are suggested. Goals for elementary school science fairs…

Traces change in conception of gravity in a boy from kindergarten until second grade, focusing on the process by which persons restructure ideas that differ from accepted scientific understandings, and acquire scientific ideas. Provides criteria for defining an alternative conception; suggests how conditions in the initial interview may have…

Outlines a strategy for the teaching of science in developing countries that breaks investigations down into individual processes, some of which do not require an apparatus. Outlines some difficulties that science teachers in developing countries face. Contains 22 references. (DDR)

Provides an in-depth look at what it means to be scientifically literate. Argues that if teachers are going to help students achieve true scientific literacy, they must agree upon a definition and reach a common understanding of the nature of scientific literacy. (DDR)

Presents the topic of linking the presence of life on Earth with the chemical evolution of the universe as a whole. The approach involves examining issues related to the biochemical unity of living matter and the chemical evolution of the galaxy. (DDR)

Explains how to implement an activity in which students measure the volume of their oral cavities. Enables students to develop skills in estimation, measurement, connections, statistics, applying concepts and procedures, and communication. (DDR)

Describes the reform of an introductory biology curriculum to reverse high attrition rates. Objectives include fostering self-directed learning, emphasizing process over content, and offering laboratory experiences that model the way to acquire scientific knowledge. Teaching methods include discussion, group mentoring, laboratory sections, and…

Recommends that teachers use real life opportunities and experiences to design experiments to motivate middle school science students. Focuses on the use of consumer testing to engage students in using the scientific method. (DDR)

Describes a professional development program, Teacher in the Woods, which is a 6-week summer research experience in the national forests of the Pacific Northwest. Uses standardized performance assessment to measure student progress and changes teachers' approach to teaching by creating greater motivation, confidence, knowledge, and skills in…

Describes an activity that teaches a number of scientific concepts including indirect measurement, Newton's third law of motion, manipulating and controlling variables, and the scientific method of inquiry. Uses process skills such as observation, inference, prediction, mensuration, and communication as well as problem solving and higher-order…

Discusses the results of research designed to determine if student science projects in Ohio meet the goals for science education as recommended by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), and the Ohio Department of Education. Contains 16 references. (DDR)

Presents a 10-week unit on rocks and minerals for 2nd and 3rd grade classes of students with disabilities. Focuses on children's science process skills. Includes a sample worksheet. (KHR)

Administered a laboratory process skills test to 147 year-5 students to assess their investigations, performance, and reasoning in biology, chemistry, and physics. Reports significant correlation between performance and amount of homework done and students' perceptions of several aspects of the classroom environment including personalization,…