Argues that inquiry is not merely using a "new" set of instructional practices, but rather involves a theoretical shift in viewing curriculum, students, learning, and teaching. (SR)

Presents an alternative approach to bonding and geometry--the electron domain model--which avoids some of the problems with the conventional approach. Discusses difficulties with the orbital model at the introductory level, electron spin and the Pauli exclusion principle, electron pair domains, nonequivalent domains, multiple bonds, and origins…

Shows how ionization energies provide a convenient method for obtaining electronegativity values that is simpler than the conventional methods. Demonstrates how approximate atomic charges can be calculated for polar molecules and how this method of determining electronegativities may lead to deeper insights than are typically possible for the…

This article discusses using questioning techniques for encouraging purposeful inquiry among gifted students in elementary grades through college levels. A variety of questioning strategies is recommended, focusing primarily on the higher end of Bloom's taxonomy to engage students in higher level thinking. A classroom example is provided.…

Explains the role and importance of standards in inquiry-based science teaching and preservice teachers' understanding of Science Teaching Standard A. Focuses on History Content Standard G of the National Science Education Standards (NSES). (YDS)

Introduces an inquiry-based unit in which students investigate characteristic environmental changes during outdoor activities. Integrates technology with data analysis, virtual field trips, and multimedia projects. Focuses on Content Standard A of the National Science Education Standards (NSES). (YDS)

Presents three science activities targeted to help urban students learn about nature: (1) observing coloration patterns of pigeons; (2) measuring local rainfall and comparing it to other areas; and (3) conducting a biodiversity study by observing a patch of lawn. (YDS)

To embed ongoing learning opportunities in routine school practices, superintendents must help schools create the collaborative cultures that enable teachers to work together, engage in collective inquiry, and learn from each others' experience. Suggestions for fostering quality staff development, clarifying priorities, and improving capacity are…

Explains how student projects enable second-year chemistry students to gain their first experience studying a chemistry-based problem before undertaking a major project during the third year of their chemistry studies. (DDR)

Discusses five realms to explore when distinguishing the efficacy of images. Explores six ethical issues that the use of images raise, such as misconception and sensationalism. Proposes a strategy for analyzing controversial images and illustrates the use of this methodology by analyzing the use of "Joe Camel" in advertising. (CMK)

Describes and evaluates an elementary science methods course in which the nature of science and scientific inquiry are embedded and explicitly taught. As a result of the course, incoming conceptions of science as primarily a body of knowledge changed to a more appropriate, blended view of science as a body of knowledge generated through the active…

Shares the authors' thinking about building classroom community and the importance of offering students choices within grade 2-3 urban classrooms. Discusses how an atmosphere of caring where students feel safe taking risks is the result of deliberate planning by teachers who realize that learning is indeed social in nature. (SG)

Lets the reader "listen in" as a group of four teachers search for a focusing question as they plan a focus study on the colonial period of American history. Organizes the authors' thinking, knowledge, resources, and predictions about what the students might bring to the table and what they might need from their teachers. (SG)

Describes a project that used a multimedia tool, Hyperstudio, to facilitate collaborative critical inquiry in the classrooms. Discusses the students' reaction, infusing academic rigor into multimedia projects, students' accomplishments and approach to challenges, and project evaluation. Sidebars list steps in conducting multimedia projects and…

Presents activities designed to help children experimentally determine what the dark areas of the moon consist of, and compares primary children's ideas about the moon with those of early scientists. (WRM)