In this two-year study with elementary teachers, using a supplemental science instructional resource, "Superscience," it was found that teachers' internal beliefs about what will benefit their students are linked to the external constraints of their students' interests and the expected curriculum. Teachers were not likely to use the…

Reviews international studies that show that girls have a poorer command of physical concepts than boys. Examines factors that might explain this phenomenon and discusses whether or not boys have different learning styles than girls. Recommends that science course content must be structured to fit girls' skills and interests. (CFR)

Discusses how the Science Activity Filter can facilitate elementary school teachers' choices of appropriate science activities for their classrooms. The filter is a process for choosing activities that considers seven factors: (1) meaningful learning; (2) the amount of time required; (3) cost of materials; (4) safety; (5) level of difficulty; (6)…

Reviews three computer software programs focusing on teaching science to middle school students: (1) Encarta, a multimedia encyclopedia; (2) Gizmos and Gadgets, which allows students to explore physical science principles; and (3) BodyScope, which allows students to examine the systems of the human body. (BB)

Describes and suggests the use of a problem-solving model that improves communication between student teachers and supervisors through the student teaching practicum. The aim of the model is to promote experimentation with various teaching techniques and to stimulate thinking among student teachers about their teaching experiences. (PR)

Surveyed 232 college students in an introductory biology course on their attitudes and perceptions on aspects of biology that they should have covered in high school science. Results indicated majority of students felt very or somewhat familiar with the topics covered in the survey. A sizable majority of students were only somewhat familiar with…

Describes using a local college for the teaching of the recommended Advance Placement laboratories as a way to increase greatly needed course time and to increase the amount of equipment available. (PR)

Describes exercises to examine the global carbon cycle. Students are asked to predict consequences of increased carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere and to suggest ways to mitigate problems associated with these higher levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide. A comparison modeling exercise examines some of the variables related to the success…

Describes the construction of a wave generator used to review the algebraic relationships of wave motion. Students calculate and measure the weight needed to create tension to generate standing waves at the first eight harmonics. (MDH)

Garlic is an ideal plant for the elementary classroom. It grows rapidly in water without aeration for several weeks and remains relatively free of microbial contamination. Simple experiments with garlic purchased at grocery stores can illustrate various aspects of plant growth. (PR)

Describes the construction of a variety of inexpensive, escape-proof, and safe insect homes--each complete with window, ventilation screen, and cover--so students can observe firsthand the intriguing world of insects. (PR)

Biotechnology has arrived in the supermarket in the form of genetically engineered enzymes. Presents an activity in which students explore the presence of protease enzymes in laundry detergents. (MDH)

Describes hands-on physical anthropology activities for teaching students about evolution. Using evidence found in hominid skulls, students conduct investigations that involve calculating ratios. Eight full-page photographs of skulls from the program Stones and Bones are included. (PR)

Describes children's books, songs, and innovative activities for introducing students to paleontology and skeletal structures. (PR)

Presents a laboratory experiment designed to help students understand the concept of diastolic blood pressure, the pressure during which the left ventricle of the heart is not contracting. Examines the effect of strenuous exercise on blood pressure. Includes materials needed, procedures, results, and discussion of the results. (MDH)