Benefits of using trade books in secondary mathematics and science are constructed knowledge, vicarious experiences of the science and mathematics process, positive attitudes toward science and mathematics, and higher levels of literacy. Includes samples of books and quotes. (56 references) (Author/MKR)

Provides secondary mathematics and science teachers with a variety of methods for incorporating trade books into instruction. Includes group problem solving, art projects, poem and song composition, drama, and character journal writing. Provides a list of 40 mathematical and science trade books. (26 references) (Author/MKR)

Examines the effects of videotaping feedback methods on beginning elementary science teachers' teaching skills and attitudes toward teaching science in Taiwan, Republic of China. Teacher's attitudes toward teaching science and other observable behaviors differed significantly between the control group and the experimental group. (LZ)

Although many students complain that the research-and-write about a favorite scientist is boring, a sixth-grade teacher offers successful alternatives. Through creative writing and hands-on activities, this assignment is made meaningful and fun for students. Excerpts from completed projects and evaluation tips are presented throughout the article.…

Presents a discussion of trying to best account for the variation resulting from guessing on a multiple-choice exam. A mathematical process is given to determine the amount of variance that could be added or subtracted from a student's score to account for guessing. Examples are provided. (MVL)

In today's rapidly changing world, science fiction can provide a bridge and a stimulus to the imagination of children. Provides an annotated bibliography of 25 science fiction titles for grades 1-3, 4-6, and 7-9. Suggests classroom applications including individual assignments, group discussion topics, and other activities. (LZ)

An ethnographic study of spontaneous conversations of elementary children and their accompanying adults during a zoo field trip was conducted. (LZ)

The purpose of this study is to substantiate the construct of science teacher self-efficacy with qualitative data and further investigate the validity of the science teacher self-efficacy Likert instrument. Results suggest that self-efficacy is a feasible construct for examining student beliefs and behaviors in science education. (LZ)

Discusses a study designed to understand 11th-grade students' learning during conversations with their teacher over and about a computer-based Newtonian microworld, Interactive Physics. Illustrates that students' learning was not local but persistent, in that they used appropriate canonical science talk without teacher support. (36 references)…

Analyzed the relationship between general coding orientation and specific characteristics associated with the family (social class, race, gender) and the school (pedagogic practice and science achievement) of (n=80) socially differentiated elementary school children. Found that there is a mutual influence of family and school factors on students'…

Details two studies: (1) Study A describes a close replication of a Bishop and Anderson study (1990) using the same conceptual-change teaching module to teach a unit on evolution to nonmajor biology students; and (2) Study B used high school students, and the instruction was based on the inquiry approach to science. (28 references) (Author)

Field trips to museums can enrich education, though teachers and parents must guide children's explorations and help them connect their previously gained knowledge with new information from the exhibits. The article describes a study of children in museums, discussing the findings and making suggestions for enhancing museum experiences. (SM)

Identifies the attitudes of secondary school students toward several science-related topical areas (i.e., nuclear energy, environmental issues, energy concepts, science concepts, space exploration, and metrication) for the purpose of enhancing students' attitudinal development toward science-related topical areas. Discusses respondents attitude…

Discusses ways science can be included in every activity of the preschoolers' day. Describes four characteristics of young children that are important to remember when planning science activities. Provides guidelines for developing and evaluating science activities. Presents a preschool unit on insects and offers suggestions for incorporating…

Examines the rise of the general science course and its implications for the reform of secondary science education. Concludes that while recent reforms emphasize the personal and social character of science and the use of the scientific method, they will not necessarily make students more scientifically literate or train them to think about…