Presented are the instructions and suggested variations on a card game designed to help children learn to match shapes. A set of cards which may be photocopied for use are included. (CW)

Discussed is the role of serendipity in the scientific method. Several examples from science history are provided. Described is the value of intuition on the part of the scientist. Six quotes from famous scientists are included. (CW)

Described is a backyard activity that can be used to introduce children to the divisions of the plant and animal kingdoms in their local environment. Preparation, procedures and followup are discussed. Background information on taxonomy and two activity cards are provided. (CW)

Discussed are several phenomena associated with earthquakes. Included are seismic waves, plate movement, and earthquake measurement. Diagrams of different plate boundary types are included. An activity for teaching these events to elementary school children is provided. (CW)

Described is an interdisciplinary unit on animal care for elementary school students. Included are research strategies; a semantic map; ideas for integrating reading, writing, and science; and a discussion of the benefits of using imagination in learning. (CW)

Reviews three computer software packages: "Mystery Objects," a science inquiry series for grades one-four; "Physics," covering physics content for high school and introductory college level; and a tutorial program "Sensei Geometry." Required hardware, price, and addresses for each software package are listed. (YP)

Investigates the additive memory effect of two modes of presenting information to elementary children on the retention of both images and words. Children represented more information in pictorial than in verbal form. The visual-verbal treatment group scored higher on most of both verbal and pictorial responses than the visual treatment group.…

Described is a science activity for intermediate grades which uses science skills to solve a mystery. Fingerprints, footprints, chromatography, invisible ink, and microscopic analysis are used in the activity. Observation, data analysis, and deductive reasoning are stressed. (CW)

Assessed is the effectiveness of a science methods program for inservice elementary teachers at a small rural college in terms of participants' concerns and attitudes toward science. (YP)

Discusses laser demonstration for invoking interest in science, especially physics. Describes some examples, such as diffraction, scattering, expansion by diverging lens, internal reflection in a light pipe, and illumination through optical cable. Provides some practical hints for the demonstration. (YP)

Provides eight fully developed library media activities to be used in conjunction with specific curriculum units in mathematics, physical education, reading/language arts, science, and social studies. Objectives, curriculum objectives, resources, instructional roles, activities and procedures for completion, evaluation, and follow-up are described…

Presents an interdisciplinary approach for helping students develop listening skills through activities which involve anticipating and paying attention to what is heard, as well as responding to oral directions. Provides worksheets, answers, and directions. (RT)

Described are videotapes for elementary school teachers. Outlines seven examples of demonstrations from physical science. Provides information on how to obtain the tapes. (YP)

Describes the experiences of five mature-age preservice elementary teachers in a semester unit of science education designed to help teachers examine and make explicit their ideas about science and science teaching. Reports that the teachers expressed a need for a supportive environment in which concepts were built gradually and introduced using…

This article discusses themes used in summer inservice workshops to develop the skills and confidence of elementary school teachers providing science instruction to gifted students. The article notes the value of hands-on activities, letting children explore, focusing on process skills, and the teacher's role as facilitator. (Author/DB)