The gypsy moth is probably the most sociologically if not biologically important insect pest of hardwoods (especially oak). Many people cannot recognize the insect. In addition, they do not understand how much damage it can do, how to control it, or how to stop it from invading new areas. This booklet provides teachers, parents, and leaders of…

This report discusses the purposes and nature of various forms of assessment that can be used to enhance, support, and monitor the progress of science learning in elementary school classrooms. Chapters included are: (1) "Introduction" (describing assessment priorities); (2) "Issues in Assessment" (discussing validity, correspondence between…

This study explored the usefulness of an approach to science instruction which specifically considered children's spontaneous conceptions about natural phenomena. The aim of the instruction was the development of conceptual understanding. The instructional approach involved diagnosing children's spontaneous conceptions, making them aware of their…

This book is written for children 5 through 10. Part of a series designed to develop their curiosity, fascinate them and educate them, this volume introduces the primate family, their physiology, and habits. Topics described include: (1) kinds of monkeys, including lemur, chimpanzee, gorilla, squirrel monkey, and marmoset; (2) behaviors when…

The activities in this book are designed to reinforce elementary concepts in the study of the universe. General background information, suggested activities, questions for discussion, and answers are provided. Twenty-eight reproducible worksheets are contained in this guide. Topics include: the solar system, orbits, planets, the sun, forces in…

This practicum addressed the importance of the development of problem solving skills in primary age children. Students need to practice recognizing the problem, deciding what steps are necessary in solving the problem, evaluating the solution, and revising the steps, when necessary. Summer camp computer students who were entering second grade…

This unit is designed to help first grade students understand the broad concept of community. The students experience a variety of in-class and field trip activities that will expose them to communities. The students observe and compare both natural and human-designed communities. Learning activities include pantomimes, listening activities,…

This unit of study is made up of a series of activities designed to acquaint the students with changes and cycles in the world around them. The unit includes a field trip to a local beach where a number of changes can be observed first-hand. Life cycles, as well as the water cycle, are introduced in the unit through a variety of pre-trip classroom…

In recent years, great interest has been generated in the determinants of science achievement. This study examines some of the postulated determinants of science achievement at the elementary level. The determinants examined are gender, parental occupation, socio-economic status, school gender, and school type. The 977 students who served as…

Children can often be heard asking what they can do to help wildlife and the environment. Listed in this pamphlet are materials on these topics and suggestions for projects that children can do. Topics addressed in this guide include: (1) "Giving Habitat a Hand"; (2) "Saving a Place for Wildlife"; (3) "Injured or Abandoned…

Scientific literacy seems to be one of those recurring preoccupations in the scene of science education in the United States. As usual, the science education community is not unanimous about there being a crisis. There is either a healthy pluralism and ongoing discussion or a complete lack of orientation in science education on this topic.…

There is little doubt that the findings of research in science education can be depressing at times. The literature is replete with reports and research findings which highlight problems and shortcomings associated with the teaching and learning of science. In order to provide a refreshing alternative to the majority of research reports which…

"Wildlife and Me" is a part of a series of materials in the Wildlife Education Service for Kansas youth series. The goal of the program is to provide information about wildlife and to establish in children an awareness and appreciation of wildlife. A booklet for children and a teacher's guide are included. The booklet was written for…

"Food for Wildlife" is a part of a series of materials in the Wildlife Education Service for Kansas youth series. The goal of the program is to provide information about wildlife and to establish in children an awareness and appreciation of wildlife. A booklet for children and a teacher's guide are included. The booklet was written for…

"Wildlife needs a Place to Live" is a part of a series of materials in the Wildlife Education Service for Kansas youth series. The goal of the program is to provide information about wildlife and to establish in children an awareness and appreciation of wildlife. A booklet for children and a teacher's guide are included. The booklet was…