Describes the procedures and techniques employed in a peer-group approach for promoting conceptual change. Explains how a series of cards were used to challenge student's conceptions of energy. Suggests that a systematic development of skills is needed to maximize the benefits of a peer group discussion approach. (ML)

Desribes a chemistry course (taught in summer for graduate credit) for K-6 teachers to help promote teaching of chemistry as an experimental science at the elementary school level. Also describes another chemistry course for elementary school teachers, focusing on the laboratory component and experiments. (JN)

The Mt. Bethel Elementary School in Marietta, Georgia, cooperated with the Chattahoochee Nature Center to develop a nature trail in a neighboring wooded lot. The program used the school's current science curriculum, depended on students to construct the trail, and involved direct teaching and inservice assistance from nature center personnel. (PGD)

Examined the effects different communicators (science methods instructors, supervisors, graduate assistants, and others) had on the attitudes of 25 elementary education majors toward science and science teaching, focusing on which communicators were perceived as being the most credible. (DH)

Recommendations from British Columbia teachers in elementary (N=1322) and junior secondary schools (N=309) indicate strong support for emphasis on practical aspects of preservice teacher education. Practice in science teaching, techniques of science teaching, and lesson planning were rated highest. Laboratory safety, reading, and writing should…

Presents quantitative data on the demand and supply of science teachers in Great Britain, discussing implications for the recruitment and professional training of new teachers. Assumptions made about inactive teachers who return to the teaching profession are also considered. (DH)

Lists objectives for excellence/exemplary programs in middle/junior high school science as perceived by a group of middle/junior high school science teachers. These objectives focus on: (1) goals; (2) curricula; (3) instruction; (4) teachers; and (5) evaluation. (JN)

Investigated why elementary and secondary school students in Utah like science and whether there are differences in reasons why they like science subjects related to their age, sex, and type of school. The non-random sample included 815 students (grades 6-8), 499 students (grades 9-10), and 541 students (grades 11-12). (JN)

Describes 12 video films constituting the "What About" series of the Skills Essential to Learning project. Films begin with an introductory sequence showing a teenager using a particular science skill and concludes with a longer sequence showing a scientist using the same skill. Programs last 15 minutes and follow an identical format. (BC)

Shows how the integration of interpretive programs with school science curricula can strengthen the power and relevance of science education, while increasing the scientific depth of environmental programs. Curriculum resources, need for interpretive resources, role of interpreters, and evaluation/development strategies are addressed. (JN)

Presents an approach that is used to introduce elementary and junior high students to a series of activities that will provide concrete experiences with acids, bases, and indicators. Provides instructions and listings of needed solutions and materials for developing this "magic sign" device. Includes background information and several…

Advocates the use of science lessons as a basis for teaching young students to read. Offers the Language-Experience Approach (LEA) as a means of teaching beginning and remedial reading and of expanding science concepts and vocabulary. Describes an LEA unit on astronomy and reviews the benefits of this approach. (ML)

Reports results of a survey on textbook adoption procedures, examining if and how often a procedure is used, whether select local districts from a list, and whether the list covers grade K-12. Also reports results of state science supervisors' (N=26) attitudes about textbook adoption procedures. (JM)

Presents an activity for students (ages 5-6 and 7-14) to identify external characteristics of marine life and plants through printing (using homemade stamp pads). Includes procedures and list of materials, and printing ideas. (JN)

Discusses several research studies that relate directly to elementary school science inservice education projects. Studies reviewed focus on metric achievement; year-long projects; one-day projects; minicourses; curriculum changes; and periodic maintenance. Also cites criticisms of existing programs and qualities an effective inservice program…