Argues for a scientific philosophy that views theory not as absolute truth but as a model that attempts to explain reality and promote inquiry. Proposes that science teachers build upon students' existing knowledge by first presenting simple, less accurate but more comprehensive models and later discussing the weaknesses. (DC)

Summarizes descriptions presented at a symposium at the recent American Association for the Advancement of Science meeting in Washington, D.C. on how science and mathematics are taught at the precollege level in some countries that are the U.S.'s chief competitors in science and technology fields. (Author/JN)

Results of a national survey to determine state certification requirements for elementary school teaching were analyzed to determine the amount of science content required. Very few states appear to be mandating sufficient science training to ensure that elementary school teachers are prepared to teach science. (PB)

Reviews current brain research and implications for science instruction. Includes discussions of correlations between Piagetian stages of cognitive development and human brain development, arousal and attention mechanisms, and hemispheric specialization. (SK)

Reviews a preschool science curriculum resource guide "Experiences in Science for Young Children," focusing on science content and instructional strategies appropriate for ages three to five. The text includes three sections: science teaching theory, child development, and meaning of science; 53 science activities; and materials and subject matter…

Discusses four variables considered to be important at the primary-secondary science interface: (1) the curriculum, (2) the school administration system, (3) the classroom environment, and (4) the teacher. (Author)

Describes a teaching method which forces students to gather data and draw influences in order to synthesize a description of the geological events responsible for current topography. (Author/MA)

Discusses how fifth- to tenth-grade students can be guided to understanding energy as a conserved quantity. Includes examples of different approaches of teaching the energy concept and the concept of energy as a conserved quantity, and learning difficulties related to students' understanding of these concepts. (DS)

Frequently, science fair projects have little relevance to the goals of science. Criteria for judging projects are not evident to students, parents, judges, and other participants. Listed are seven steps to a better fair project which emphasize methodology and presentation. Also included are hints for involving parents. (DC)

Reports on a study which investigated the effects of varying percentages of high cognitive questions on primary and intermediate students' achievement at the knowledge, comprehension, and analysis levels. Also investigated the effects of redirecting questions on student achievement. (CS)

This is the text of a presentation at a meeting of the Hoosier Association of Science Teachers. Recommendations are given for planning science in the elementary and secondary school to satisfy the Comprehensive Assessment and Program Planning System (CAPPS) mandate in Indiana. (SA)

Focuses on the relationships of the teacher's affective attributes, concerning both interest and attitude, and measures of teaching behaviors of elementary grade preservice teachers (N=148) consistent with instructional methodology of the SCIS curriculum. Results include a confirmation that a field-oriented treatment yields significant changes in…

Suggestions are given for using zoos as a teaching resource. Cooperation is encouraged between teachers and zoo personnel. (SA)

Presents an educational game intended to teach children proper cat care. It is intended for lower elementary-aged children and may be used as a classroom activity. (SA)

Reviews the stages of children's thinking according to Piaget's Theory. Illustrates how a curriculum writer might consider the complexities of a topic and match these to a level of thinking as represented by a school grade level. Outlines the implications of Piagetian levels in the construction of examinations. (GS)