Examines three anecdotal cases of the teaching of evolution theory in an exploration of the best approaches for teaching about evolution. Three instructional options are presented: (1) readings in natural history, (2) commercially prepared activities, and (3) the use of small-group (peer) discussions. (LZ)

Presents an activity to integrate mathematics, science, and technology by using a computer spreadsheet to examine relationships between data collected about popcorn. (11 references) (Author/MKR)

Perspectives that underlie a study of scientific reasoning of elementary students with mild mental retardation (EC 612 096) are provided. Epistemological issues that appear to shape knowledge of special education are addressed, specifically "constructivism" versus "behaviorism" and the relative worth of "constructed" versus "instructed" knowledge.…

Eighteen year-11 physics students were taught heat and expansion of liquids using a predict-observe-explain sequence. Argues that the data demonstrate how students' prior knowledge and beliefs can affect their observations and interpretations of new learning. (Author/MKR)

Conducted a study (n=26) to test descriptions about learning associated with open-ended design projects and to clarify the notion of ownership of resources and practices. Reports that conceptual and material resources were shared among students and that tool-related practices were appropriated as newcomers participated with more competent others…

Integrating children's weather-related family folklore with scientific investigation can be an effective way to involve elementary and middle level students in lessons spanning the disciplines of science, geography, history, anthropology, and language arts. Describes weather folklore studies and examples of weather investigations performed with…

Describes a performance-based assessment approach utilizing science activities and questions to assess different levels of thinking. Objectives, materials, and procedures are provided for the assessment of student skills in classification, observation and inference, interpretation, and analysis. (PR)

Describes a project to develop and conduct an assessment that was congruent with the hands-on, process-oriented science education used in an Illinois school district. The approach used observations, group-teacher interactions, group performance, and data gathering and interpretation. The major components of the program are summarized. (PR)

Presents a lesson plan about greenhouse effect and global warming. Includes diagrams and graphs from which students are asked to make inferences. Provides background information about how energy enters and leaves the earth system, the energy budget, consequences of obstructing the energy balance, and the greenhouse effect. (three references) (MCO)

Describes techniques and equipment which allows school microscopes to perform crossed-polarized light microscopy, reflected light microscopy, and photomicrography. Provides information on using chemicals from a high school stockroom to view crystals, viewing integrated circuits, and capturing images on film. Lists possible independent student…

Describes a high school biology assignment that had students read a self-selected book where the main character experiences nature and is changed by it. Evaluation was based on journal entries and a formal paper. Seventy percent of the students indicated they greatly enjoyed the assignment. (PR)

Examines the problem of determining the minimum center of mass for a can with a varying height of liquid in it. Uses PC SOLVE computer software to graphically represent the problem situation. (MDH)

Discussed is the importance of engineering students having effective communication skills so they will be able to discuss their work, present their findings, and propose a course of action. Suggestions for organizing and delivering presentations are included. (KR)

Discussed are the possible uses of spreadsheets in the undergraduate curriculum in chemical engineering classes. The advantages and flexibility of spreadsheets, spreadsheet instruction, graphing capabilities, assignment examples, and conclusions are described. (KR)

Described is a curriculum development project aimed at stimulating girls' interest in physics with a view to encouraging more girls to pursue the subject further. Included are the background information, implementation, and implications for science teaching. (KR)