Using movie scenes about being trapped in quicksand as a starting point, this inquiry-oriented lesson engages students in a novel study of density. Students collect and graph data collected on a variety of objects placed in a mixture of sand and water. From their findings, students consider misconceptions about quicksand and its real dangers. (DLH)

Describes an ongoing project, the Cosmic Ray Observatory Project (CROP), being conducted by the University of Nebraska in partnership with several high schools. Each school group has installed cosmic ray detectors, and initial activities have included calibrating equipment, gathering preliminary data, and learning about cosmic ray showers. Aims to…

Describes fossil investigations developed and provided by the Falls of the Ohio State Park near Louisville, Kentucky. The Devonian shale beds contain representatives of over 600 species including corals, sponges, brachiopods, mollusks, and echinoderms. Rather than focusing on identification, the activities emphasize the past ecological…

Students compare several different window cleaner recipes to determine the purpose each ingredient serves, then develop their own "New and Improved" recipe to test its performance against commercial window cleaner. Complements the National Chemistry Week 2002 theme, "Chemistry Keeps Us Clean." (Author/MM)

Presents the Chem-E-Car competition in which students build a small car powered by a chemical reaction. Focuses on a controlled chemical reaction in which the car travels a required specific distance and stops. Requires participants to prepare poster presentations. (YDS)

Introduces land snails for use in inquiry-based science activities. Describes common characteristics and safety considerations while introducing students to land snails. Explains procedures for inquiry-based use of land snails in classrooms. (YDS)

Presents a simple everyday science activity concerning fingerprints for children and their families to do together. Includes a description and the procedure for the activity. (KHR)

Presents a scenario that helps students guess the site and purpose of a field trip while at the same time learning about matter and energy. (Author/KHR)

Given is a rationale for using science demonstrations. The development and characteristics of successful demonstrations are presented. An illustration is given in the area of microbiology. A rating sheet is included. (CW)

Presents an activity in which college chemistry students collaboratively identify chemical substances. (MKR)

Presents activities that use marine organisms with plant-like appearances to help students build classification skills and illustrate some of the less obvious differences between plants and animals. Compares mechanisms by which sessile plants and animals deal with common problems such as obtaining energy, defending themselves, successfully…

Presents activities that allow students in grades three to five to study sound by using children's tradebooks during exploration and experimentation. (JRH)

Presents hands-on science activities that help young children learn about the five senses and connect different aspects of the early childhood curriculum. (JRH)

Uses a diode array spectrometer to explain why blue objects appear red when viewed through the yellowish amber lens of "blue blocking" sunglasses. (JRH)

Teachers can use the movement of a tricycle's wheels to demonstrate ratios, and the movement of an automobile's wheels can be used to explain how a differential works. Additional concepts can be taught using trains, which negotiate turns through the flanges on their wheels, allowing the outer wheels to turn more slowly than the inner wheels…