Provides information on a redevelopment project at the San Francisco Zoo known as the New Zoo. The explicit goal of the project is to inspire a sense of caring and appreciation for wildlife that is the foundation of a conservation ethic. (DDR)

Illustrates how environmental education can be integrated into the curriculum for children with special needs. Cites specific topics that are interesting and educational and includes some tips to consider when exploring the outdoors. (DDR)

Discusses the issues related to animal dissection and explains the alternative options to dissection like anatomical models or virtual dissections. (YDS)

Argues that evolution is a process that occurs within the curriculum as well as within the physical universe. Provides an example that involves student presentations. Discusses the transition from poster presentations to electronic presentations via the World Wide Web. (DDR)

Describes absorption spectroscopy experiments that allow students to explore the mechanisms by which sunscreens and sunglasses provide protection from ultraviolet radiation. Exposes students to absorption phenomena in an engaging way. (DDR)

Presents a position statement from the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) that expresses a vision for the reform of science teaching and learning. Comments on inquiry-based instruction, reflective teaching, assessment practices, subject matter, equity in science programs, and the professional development of science teachers. (DDR)

Documents the history and present state of science education at the primary level in Cyprus against the background of the general educational system and goals. (WRM)

Asks whether what is taught in science class only makes sense to someone who already understands science. Discusses school science in terms of four questions: (1) What is to be taught?; (2) What conditions promote learning?; (3) What do students learn?; and (4) What are the cognitive processes in learners' minds? (Contains 17 references.)…

Defines six types of investigations: (1) classifying and identifying; (2) fair testing; (3) pattern seeking; (4) exploring; (5) investigating models; and (6) making things or developing systems. Challenges the dominance of fair testing in school science investigations. (Author/WRM)

Analyzes some epistemological attributes of ecological hypotheses and theories and tries to connect them with the need for teaching strategies that take into account the strong provisional character of ecological knowledge. Shows that critical thinking is an essential tool in both learning and practicing ecological science. (DDR)

Argues for the inclusion of ideas specific to urban environments in education reform efforts. Discusses issues such as equality, social and environmental justice, and civil rights. (DDR)

Most states do not have the time or resources to develop environmental education standards from scratch. Highlights the role that environmental education and its interdisciplinary nature can play in helping students achieve. (DDR)

Describes a tree studies program in a fourth-grade classroom. Students collected local tree seeds and seeds from supermarket fruits, researched growing conditions, and grew seeds under various conditions. Students kept journals on local trees, observing seed dispersal mechanisms and examining rings on trunk slices. Inquiry-based tree studies…

In this paper, we report on a program of study called Adventures in Modeling that challenges the traditional scientific method approach in science classrooms using StarLogo modeling software. Drawing upon previous successful efforts with older students, and the related work of other projects working with younger students, we explore: (a) What can…

This article explores the nature of a continuing mismatch between curriculum reform rhetoric in science education and actual classroom practice. Lack of philosophical consensus about the nature of science (NOS); lack of appropriate curriculum guidance, classroom materials and pedagogical content knowledge for NOS teaching; teachers' personal…