Provides an overview of factors that affect science learning, including those factors that science teachers can control as well as factors they can influence. Knowledge of these structural and procedural factors can be utilized to improve the learning experiences of students in science classrooms. (JN)

Discusses the culturing of microorganisms as a laboratory activity emphaszing the growth of microorganisms in food. Provides background and safety information, procedures, and additional ideas. The complete unit (teacher's guide, student worksheets, evaluation and assessment, and resources for students and teachers) is available from the author.…

Presents the results of a survey of people who work with computers in an educational setting including classroom teachers, computer laboratory coordinators, and university professors. Journals are listed in order from most frequently to least frequently read and each is accompanied by general impressions and comments on educational usefulness. (JM)

Describes a unit on seeds designed to introduce students to their scientific and nutritional uses. Unit activities are easily done, employ a variety of process skills, and can be used at various grade levels. Suggests field trips to gather seeds, seed sprouting, and making cookies out of various whole grains. (JM)

Presents a mini unit to help children critically evaluate opinions they hold about maligned animals. This involves: asking students to list animals they disfavor, having students monitor television programs that treat animals disrespectfully, and forming "public relations" teams to support and promote a disliked animal. (BC)

Describes a saltwater aquarium design that uses hermit crabs, sea anemones, sea snails, and plants to create an experimental marine environment. Procedures for setting up the tank, techniques for controlling salinity and introducing animals to the environment, and student activities are discussed. (BC)

Fish painting can be used to introduce basic and advanced subject-concepts, especially with students for whom tactile skill development is of particular importance. Materials, methods, and hints are presented along with a diagram of the painting procedure. (BC)

A science laboratory was developed for use by kindergarten through sixth-grade students. The operation of and the types of science activities used in this laboratory are described. (JN)

Four computer programs are reviewed. Programs emphasize problem solving in science, visual and spatial thinking, word processing, and health awareness. Hardware requirements, recommended grade levels, manufacturer, purchase agreement, and current price are included. (JN)

Describes research on the effectiveness of "3-2-1 CONTACT," a Public Broadcasting System children's television science series. In the study, 15 of the shows designed for the series' second season were pilot-tested with fourth and fifth graders (N=192) by examining changes in student knowledge using pre- and post-tests. Conclusions are…

Students' understanding of basic science concepts (with particular emphasis on the interaction of science and society) was measured during a 1981-82 national assessment. These results are compared to those obtained from the Third Science Assessment (1977) to determine how students' knowledge has changed during the past five years. (JN)

Provides background information on honey ants. These ants are found in dry or desert regions of North America, Africa, and Australia. Also provides a list of activities using local species of ants. (JN)

Believes that the development of a scientific vocabulary and scientific skills of inquiry and interpretation are basic skills to which all science students should be exposed. (CP)

A study done based on the premise that classroom groups can help students develop their intellectual thinking and potential, especially their skills in critical thinking. Students were paired according to similar I.Q. scores. (EB)

The purposes of this pilot program are to introduce university students to ecological concepts and current environmental issues and to provide environmental instructors for elementary schools. Student-instructors are first trained in ecosystem concepts. Then they present topics to elementary children. (MR)