Activities used to teach optics to fifth and sixth graders are presented. Moon phases and solar and lunar eclipses are included. (SA)

The article presents a general discussion of assessment and examples of items that assess specific skills. Included are: estimating and approximating; observing and measuring; using data to infer and predict; and graph construction and interpretation. Specific tests are listed. (MK)

Focuses on techniques of improving interaction within groups of children engaged in a classroom science activity. The role of the teacher is discussed as well as the positive outcomes of successful cooperation between children. (SA)

Discusses the problem of disposing of unwanted and dangerous chemicals found in storage rooms in elementary and secondary schools. Suggestions for how science teachers and principals deal with this problem are also presented. (HM)

A roomful of activity--book nook, mini-cinema, creature features--provides an effective and delightful mix of reading and science skills. (Editor)

When science is learned through an activity-centered approach, it becomes a vehicle for learning skills that are necessary for everyday life. (Author)

Describes seven creative laboratory activities appropriate at any grade level (K-12) that stress the method and spirit of scientific inquiry. (CS)

Three articles present elementary science, mathematics, and social studies activities. A hands-on science activity introduces students to microscopic water creatures. A math in action game has students build logic and number-sense skills. A social studies activity has students weave story cloths into conflict resolution. (SM)

Discusses the process of designing a series of case-based interactive videodiscs to be used within a constructivist learning environment for elementary school science. Topics include assumptions about learners and learning; implications for learning materials; and implications for the instructional design process, including process-based versus…

Presents suggestions for elementary-level teachers to use at the beginning of the school year, including meet the teacher activities, back-to-school parades, a welcome bulletin board, bereavement coping skills, creative science, math manipulatives, social studies activities, and creative story writing. (SM)

Describes a Star Party which involves comparing the different colors of the stars, demonstrating how astronomers measure the sky with degrees, determining the cardinal direction, discussing numerous stories that ancient civilizations gave to constellations, exercising science process skills, and using science instruments. (JRH)

Described is an activity where students determine the effect of different toothpastes on teeth. Students used observational data and pH changes to determine any changes in the teeth. Included are a list of materials, procedures, and results. (KR)

Presented is an activity that investigates the effect of sugar on teeth using cola, sugar solution, and water. Included are the materials, procedures, resources, and alternative lessons. (KR)

Described is a technique for fiber identification for use by K-6 students. Follow-up activities for elementary and college students are suggested. (CW)

Tests and combinations of tests for evaluating science programs that are designed to incorporate content, process skills, and problem-solving skills are discussed. Described are the use of written and practical tests, observation and discussion, and projects and written work. (CW)