Reviews the performance of U.S. students in science and mathematics achievement as compared to 17 other countries, as reported in two surveys released by the National Science Foundation. Discusses the results of a research study done by Iris Weiss. Points out deficiencies and trends in American science education. (CW)

Describes the "Grow Lab" program which is sponsored by the National Gardening Association. Discusses how eight square feet of classroom space are converted into a mini-ecosystem. Mentions the development of a curriculum guide to accompany the indoor garden. (TW)

Defines attitude and distinguishes it from related concepts. Indicates some weaknesses inherent in attitude research and offers suggestions as to research that is needed. Reviews attitude research and identifies three measures for studying attitudes. States that attitudes are enduring, learned and related to behavior. (CW)

Provides eight fully-developed library media activities to be used in conjunction with specific curriculum units in guidance, music, reading/language arts, science, and social studies. Components described for each activity include (1) objectives, (2) subject area objectives, (3) resources, (4) instructional roles, (5) activity and procedures, (6)…

Encourages teachers to take advantage of the natural curiosity of young children in enhancing their interest in science. Describes four simple activities involving water, living and non-living things, air pollution, and food. (TW)

Reports on a study designed to compare the effects of two instructional treatments in which the experimental treatment emphasized self-management, goal clarification, and individualized course expectations. An increase in science locus of control was found to be significant for the experimental group. (TW)

Describes classroom activities to help children determine cause and relate the changes to the substances being changed. Advocates the use of "change jars" and making daily observations to teach the concepts that certain conditions promote change. Includes ideas using temperature, moisture, rotting, and sprouting to teach the concept of change. (CW)

This is the appendix to Ranger Rick's "Nature Scope, Volume 2, Number 4, Amazing Animals, Part II." Includes a glossary of terms, a list of 23 questions about the volume's articles, a bibliography, and a cross-reference of articles from "Ranger Rick" magazine which deals with the same animals in this volume. (TW)

Describes several hands-on science activities which focus on the use of apples. Suggests several ways of using apples to teach classification. Proposes a field trip to an orchard as a culminating activity. (TW)

Examines the various adaptations, food-getting strategies, and defense mechanisms that mammals have employed in surviving from one season to the next. Contains exercises in simulating animal movements and in identifying animal tracks and habitats. (ML)

Student outcomes were assessed by quantitatively combining results of 57 reported evaluations of three major curriculum programs in elementary school science. Thirty-two percent of the comparisons were statistically significant, favoring activity-based programs; six percent favored control groups. (DH)

Describes a class during which teachers bicycle through Missouri to gather information about the natural environment. Bikers traveled to several state parks, had guest lecturers, and viewed landscape formations firsthand. Suggestions for planning the bike-study trip and comments on support vans and teacher interests are included. (DH)

Offers a way of teaching quantitative thinking through a software program called, "Hot Dog Stand." This simulation provides students with practice in planning expenses, in computing problems, and in dealing with a situation in which outcomes depend on random events. Also includes suggestions for computer use during non-scheduled time. (ML)

Argues that the most effective in-service programs for rural schools take place in the classroom with teachers and in-service tutors sharing the teaching, analysis, and evaluation. Describes such a program that helped rural Norfolk and Suffolk (England) elementary teachers gain skill and confidence in teaching science. (JHZ)

Provides: (1) background information on the space program, space issues and problems, and the search for extraterrestrial life; (2) five activities; and (3) ready-to-duplicate student materials. Activities include objective(s), recommended age level(s), subject area(s), list of materials needed, and procedures. (JN)