Described is a demonstration science laboratory at the University of Florida. Discussed is laboratory design, including instructional space, lab stations, sink areas, safety areas, and a storage and distribution area. The impact of this type of design is cited. Diagrams and photographs are included. (CW)

Described is an interdisciplinary program designed to coordinate the physics and calculus courses for seniors in a Massachusetts high school. Target audience, benefits, team coordination, and impact are discussed. A list of suggested crossover topics is provided. (CW)

The experience of one high school in New York State offering physics to freshmen is described. Advantages and disadvantages of this approach are discussed. Curriculum alternatives within the New York State guidelines are presented. (CW)

Described is a field trip in which eighth grade earth science students map the rock types located on the side of a mountain. Pretrip preparation, equipment, procedures, and posttrip analysis are discussed. (CW)

The development of the Science/Society/Technology (STS) movement in the United States is reviewed. The basic philosophy of STS instruction is discussed. Traditional instruction is compared to STS instruction. Suggestions for making STS instruction more effective are provided. (CW)

Described is the use of the microcomputer and interfacing equipment to obtain weather data from meteorological satellites. Equipment necessary for this type of remote sensing, including constructing and/or obtaining the necessary hardware and software is discussed. Ideas for the integration of this material into the curriculum are presented. (CW)

The use of the Accu-Weather database system in a junior high school classroom is described. Costs, equipment, and information received are discussed. Two software packages designed for use with meteorological data and Accu-Weather are highlighted. Availability information and a description of the services provided are included. (CW)

Described is the Issue Analysis Technique designed to educate students about the various beliefs and values held by the people on various sides of a controversial science-related social issue. The background of the technique, procedures, and curricular goals are discussed. An example is provided. (CW)

The director of the Marine Systems Laboratory of the Smithsonian Institution discusses steps in developing ecological models. The following topics in using an aquarium for the ecosystem are described: lighting, water motion, water quality and filtration. Presents information on choosing living organisms for the ecosystem. Describes potential…

Describes inexpensive science materials for doing science activities using the steps in the learning cycle: engage, explore, explain, extend, and evaluate. The hands-on activities help students construct knowledge of dissolving and filtering, chemical reactions, conductivity of metals, heat absorption, motion (frictionless puck), sound production…

Describes techniques to avoid the time crunch and safety hazards associated with fitting labs into 45-minute periods. The author presents information on organizing people and things, adapting labs, and cleanup management. The author cautions against rushing a science lab to the point of compromising safety or student understanding. (PR)

Author presents suggestions for teaching courses for the first time. Suggestions include the following: be organized, remember basic science processes, study the new content, use what works, structure your lessons, be flexible, learn from students, be creative and willing to try new ideas, capitalize on what you know, seek help from every…

The authors describe peer coaching as the process of teachers helping each other using techniques based on models of clinical supervision. Presents positive outcomes of peer coaching. Suggests that the professional interaction should involve a preconference, an observation, and a postconference. (five references and an annotated bibliography) (PR)

Presents information on a standards-based assessment for student laboratory work. Four criteria--planning and design, experimental execution, observation of changes, and interpretation and explanation--are presented along with standards for assessment of laboratory performance. Describes the benefits of teachers enunciating both criteria and…

The authors describe a simple forecasting strategy that focuses on environmental and global topics. Students choose their own topics, collect and analyze data, make predictions, and present findings to the class. Authors claim the following advantages of forecasting: students become motivated; work in cooperative groups; increase skills in…