Describes a study investigating the use of class discussion following a period of unstructured observation and experimentation as a method of increasing the student's ability to view scientific problems as useful starting points for investigation. (SL)

Examines six science books in reference to their reading levels as determined by the Fry, SMOG, and Fog formulas. A disparity in calculated values is noted and explained to be the result of the use of different comprehension levels by the formulas. Suggestions concerning the selection of science reading materials for the classroom are provided.…

Reported is a study designed to determine the effectiveness of two methods of teaching the metric system using only metric measurements and teaching students conversion procedures. (MR)

Examines current elementary school science programs in light of their educational benefits for students, the evidence which exists with regard to their educational value, and the need for further research in these programs. (Author/RK)

Discusses the study of rabbits as a science activity with live animals for elementary level students. (SL)

Describes a technique of making microscope images viewable by a small group and for making pictures of the images without a camera. (SL)

Here are five articles designed to aid the elementary teacher in teaching the basics. (RK)

Reports on a part of the National Science Foundation sponsored Project TAPE. In particular, the methods by which elementary teachers learned about their science curricula and their satisfaction with the curricula are presented. The responses of the 600 teachers participating in the survey are divided into those using NSF supported curricula and…

The distribution, nesting and brooding habits, and migration patterns of the wood duck (aix sponsa) are described. (CP)

Numerous science and mathematics activities which can be performed with sporks (plastic spoon-forks) that are packaged in cellophane with a napkin and a straw and distributed with school lunches are described. (CP)

Provides a series of learning center activities which demonstrate concepts about air. (CP)

Discusses the need to include nutrition as a basic topic in health courses, especially for young children. (SL)

Investigates the consequences of inquiry and didactic teaching when students either cooperate or compete with each other on (a) students' acceptance of the teaching method, (b) their approval of the teacher, (c) their experience of peer support, and (d) their beliefs that they have learned. Eighty fourth and fifth grade students were randomly…

Describes research undertaken to assess the validity of the Views of Science (VOS) questionnaire. The instrument purports to measure a subject's view of the tentativeness of science. Findings indicated that although the instrument appeared to have construct validity, the physical science backgrounds of subjects taking the test appeared to affect…

Reports a study describing children's learning about controlling variables in an environment where student autonomy is maximized and teacher controlled instruction is minimized. (SL)