Science lessons are often too strongly content-driven and focus exclusively on scientific knowledge. Discusses how students fail to see the relevance of science and often do not see the connection of science to either everyday life or the future. (Contains 26 references.) (DDR)

Improvements in the mechanism of the whirlybird used in the Science Curriculum Improvement Study (SCIS) unit "Subsystems and Variables" are presented. Variables which can be investigated using this device are discussed. An illustration of the improved device is provided. (CW)

Described is an activity in which students calculate constant velocity using a tape cassette player. The objectives, procedures, graphing directions, and formulas and values needed for the calculations are included. (KR)

Described is an activity that uses discarded evergreen trees from Christmas. Tree age and growth characteristics are investigated by looking at the number of whorls and rings of the trunks. Extensions and follow-up activities are included. (KR)

Described is an undergraduate interdisciplinary project encompassing physics, computer science, and geology and involving a number of students from several academic departments. The project used the topic of the occurrence of in-home radon. Student projects, radon sampling, and results are discussed. (CW)

Described is a way to modify the classroom environment so that females and minorities are more encouraged to participate in activities. The use of cooperative skills are emphasized such as active listening and checking for understanding. (KR)

Described is a practical examination that investigated the process skills of ninth grade students. Six hands-on test items are described. Included are the process test categories, the test room setup, and the major findings. (KR)

Discussed is the teaching method called the learning cycle and how it can be incorporated into science activities. Included are examples of how teachers and students can use the learning cycle to produce instructional materials. (KR)

Fourteen astronomy activities are presented including classroom procedures and questions. Topics include different investigations of the moon, planets, stars, sunsets, light pollution, and rainbows and halos. Additional information on measurements used for observations in astronomy, and rainbow characteristics is included. (CW)

Described is a simulation game designed to reinforce the biological concepts of poisoning, encourage critical thinking and deductive reasoning, and be enjoyed by the students. Discussed is the plot design, the setting, the characters, the analysis, and results of the simulation. Examples of the data and case histories generated by this game are…

The purpose of this article is to help teachers and students understand the various forms used for scientific papers and reports by presenting formats that are generally accepted by the scientific community. Highlighted are the areas of format and style. Seven references are listed. (CW)

Investigated was the effect of the Scientist in Residence Program to inspire elementary school children with their personal enthusiasm for science. Describes changes in the students' image of scientists using the Draw-a-Scientist Test before and after the program. Discusses the results of written responses and feedback from scientists. (YP)

The advantages of microchemistry in terms of economics and safety are discussed. A list of six companies known to supply apparatus and reagents for microscale experimentation is provided. (CW)

Developed is an interdisciplinary unit that deals with global warming and the greenhouse effect. Included are 10 lessons that can be used to supplement existing plans or used as a basis for developing a new unit. Included are modeling, laboratory, graphing, role-playing, and discussion activities. (KR)

Described is an inorganic chemistry course based on the premise that a balanced understanding of inorganic chemistry requires knowledge of the experimental, theoretical, and technological aspects of the subject. A detailed description of lectures and laboratories is included. (KR)