Describes how technological capabilities such as calculation, imaging, networking, and portability support a range of pedagogical approaches, such as inquiry-based science and dynamic modeling. Includes as examples software products created at Apple Computer and others available in the marketplace. (KDFB)

Describes the Sonoran Desert, the hottest desert in North America. Discusses management challenges, recreation, exotic plants, threatened and endangered species, American Indian traditional cultural places, and riparian areas. Presents classroom activities aimed at educating youth about the area's many distinctive features and the importance of…

Explored the claim that performance assessments foster a more positive motivational orientation for students than supplied-response assessments when used in the classroom. Fifth graders in three science classrooms were exposed to three types of assessment. Surveys investigated students' attitudes toward science, goal orientation, and cognitive…

Reviews 92 children's books which would enhance any topic in a science curriculum. Describes books about mammals and insects, symbiosis and camouflage, shadows, and outer space "junk." (MG)

Described is the use of ordinary ceramic magnets to replace the more expensive bar magnets commonly used. Suggestions for 11 task cards to help introduce children to the uses and principles of magnetism are provided. (CW)

Described are eight science activities that may take place on a school playground using a parachute, balls, swings, slides, and a balance beam. Procedures and questions for each activity are included. (CW)

Presented is an activity that includes a poster of an African elephant and discussion questions, a class project, a model project, and a follow-up activity. (CW)

Reviewed are previous studies that have examined adults' and children's ability to understand verbal directions. Differences in style and the implications of these differences for educating children are discussed. (CW)

Provides directions for performing eight short activities which relate to various animals and help to teach affective objectives relating to interests, attitudes, and values. (RT)

Described is a third-grade science unit using feathers. Children use the feathers to learn about measurement, observation, and inference. Procedures and results are discussed. (CW)

Provides 13 activities related to the humane treatment of animals. Gives directions and strategies for 11 short activities, and 2 activities that require ten minutes or more to perform. Examples and drawings are included. (RT)

Presents an integrated approach that helps students understand difficult science concepts. Involves counteracting children's confusion over certain concepts, confronting children's misconceptions through inquiry, and presenting a multitude of experiences that challenge children's erroneous beliefs. Presents an example of applying this approach to…

One creative way that elementary science educators can teach their students about animal communication is to give them glow sticks and a set of cards with descriptions of what different firefly flash signals mean. The paper describes such a project and presents related activities. (SM)

Suggests a revised Montessori elementary biology sequence based on the new five-kingdom model. In keeping with Montessori principles that move the learner from the whole to the parts and from the simple to the complex, offers a proposed outline of instruction for the lower elementary (6-9) level and for the upper elementary (9-12) level. (TJQ)

Reported are the results of a questionnaire administered to 135 teachers in Alabama to determine the effects of encouragement on their use of hands-on science activities. The effect of personal success on teaching style is also discussed. A copy of the questionnaire is included. (CW)