Presents a series of laboratory exercises designed to introduce students to a realistic experience in biological research that is feasible with large numbers of beginning biology majors. The exercises center on the study of alkaline phosphatase. (DDR)

Defines approaches to inquiry-based science teaching and describes many ways in which to conduct this kind of science instruction. Argues that with science reform underway, opportunities exist to transform classrooms into environments with active learners engaged in inquiry. (DDR)

Presents an activity and background information to help students in America's Midwest understand that the world is in the midst of a global food crisis. Discusses the view that hunger is a daily concern with serious social, political, and economic consequences. (DDR)

Describes the West Michigan Science Festival which features a variety of interactive events in manufacturing, electronics, health care, engineering, and other fields. Brings together students, businesses, industries, and educators in a community celebration of science, mathematics, and technology. Discusses beginnings, business partners, events,…

Describes two model water education programs. The River Ecology Program teaches students basic ecological concepts related to rivers, explores the impact of human activities on rivers, and helps students develop an attitude of stewardship for rivers. The Wetlands Watch Program has students conduct studies related to local wetlands and respond…

Describes the Merck Institute for Science Education whose goals are to communicate the excitement and relevance of science to students through science teaching, and to work with teachers and instill in them an understanding and appreciation of science. Involves industry volunteers contributing to the professional development of teachers and…

Describes a partnership project in which sixth-grade students researched the controversial topic of how the feral horses at Cumberland Island National Seashore are affecting the island's natural habitats. The students met actual scientists, and made the research topic one of local concern. (JRH)

Describes a seminar where students explore emerging technologies through a series of labs that help boost their technical skills and their confidence in using and managing technology. Discusses charting the course, laboratory logistics, technology tips, and benefits. (JRH)

Although museums are considered optimal venues for informal learning, this study concludes that most school classes visiting museums are restricted and structured, teachers use mainly task-orientated teaching practices, and the museum activities are rarely linked to topics being studied at school. A research-based framework to guide teachers in…

Describes an educational program that asks students to attempt to prove that the earth is spherical and that it rotates. Presents tips to pique student interest and charts related to sensing the spin, nonrotation notions, flat earth fallacies, evidence that the earth is spherical and rotates, and the role of watersheds in proving that the earth…

Discusses various problems with Activitymania (prepackaged activities for science instruction) in the context of teaching scientific inquiry. Suggests that teachers clearly define conceptual goals and their relationships to students' lives and interests before selecting classroom activities. (PVD)

Presents an instructional framework for real-world, problem-based studies that can be used in a variety of settings. Discusses background knowledge, problem exposition, data collection and analysis, data synthesis and solution presentation, and career information. (JRH)

Describes how sixth graders wrote and illustrated picture books to help make abstract and difficult concepts in science (in this case, the elements of chemistry) more understandable for themselves and for younger children. Describes the steps of research, modeling, developing a plan of action, drafting, final revision and editing, and publishing…

Describes a school program in which two sixth-grade science classes researched, created, and put together an ocean museum targeted at kindergarten through eighth graders who are geographically distanced from the ocean. Details the process for investigating topical areas, organizing teams of students, researching, writing, creating displays, and…

Introduces a Martian simulation activity that aims to build a scale model of Martian terrain in the classroom. Uses an interdisciplinary approach to teach science process skills, modeling, scaling, sampling, population calculation, and genetics. (YDS)