The achievement of content and understandings of the scientific enterprise of students in the Interaction of Matter and Energy Program (IME) and conventional physical science classes was compared. The experimental group consisted of 372 pupils from 13 classes while the control group had 275 students from 12 classes. Students were pre- and post-tested with the Sequential Test of Educational Progress (STEP) Science Achievement Test and the Test on Understanding Science (TOUS). "The results indicate that the IME is successful in providing an understanding of science particularly in the area of methods and aims of science with pupils of normal or above normal mental ability when taught by teachers who are adequately trained in physical science." [Not available in hard copy due to marginal legibility of original document.] (BC)