Suggestions are given for encouraging parents to participate in their children's science studies, at home and at school. Several sample lessons illustrate the kinds of experiments that require only inexpensive supplies which parents can provide. (SA)

An idea for hands-on activities for families to use in discovering the outdoors together when visiting parks is described. Family packs contain discovery and natural history cards, thermometers, magnifiers, insect boxes, photographs of animals and plants, a pencil, and a feedback form. (SA)

Reported is a needs assessment conducted in 40 Massachusetts school systems to determine what elementary school science teachers perceive should comprise their inservice training. Findings suggest that programs focus on the metric system, environmental science, more science knowledge, and better science methods. (Author/SA)

The problems of individualizing instruction in elementary school science are discussed. A system for teachers to use to monitor their individualization efforts is also presented. (SA)

Described is one school's approach to elementary science. The program is designed to meet the needs of the gifted and talented students as well as to develop the talents of all the children through an interest-centered approach to science. (CS)

A set of instructions for growing algae successfully in the classroom and maintaining the culture is provided. Aids for identification of freshwater organisms are suggested. (SA)

The activities for preschool through primary aged children identify ways in which teachers can encourage children to learn the functions of many everyday materials. (SA)

Announced is the availability of a set of lessons for middle school and secondary school teachers who want to teach about energy. Concrete experiences are emphasized in this instructional program. (SA)

Provides a descriptive listing of museums and science exhibits that are essentially participatory and playful in nature for young children. Offerings in the areas of natural history, museums, science and technology centers and specifically children's museums are outlined. Educational benefits are discussed. (ML)

Compares and contrasts the approaches taken by museums and schools in computer education. Reviews representative museum computer programs as "Keyboards for Kids" for preschool children of the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia and the teacher training project of Boston's Museum of Science. Offers perspectives on expanded program options. (ML)

Lists currently available programs for elementary and middle/junior high school teachers at museums throughout the United States. Identifies exemplary programs that were selected by the Association of Science-Technology Centers. Provides the museum's address, program name, intended audience, and types of programs offered. (ML)

Relates how a classroom can support and house a mini-museum of natural science. Describes the various types of exhibits and the range of activities that can be developed from them. Explains student involvement in exhibit design and use. (ML)

Suggests the use of a body puzzle as a student-centered and economic way of teaching human anatomy. Provides a full page diagram of the body with illustrations of selected organs. Lists activities that can serve as the basis for inquiry into the structure and function of the human body. (ML)

Describes a 3-day program sponsored by the Orange County Marine Institute that provides biological, cultural, and historical learning experiences. Discusses the setting and activities of the five ecosystems explored by the students. The Chaparral to Ocean Science Camp includes chaparral, riparian, woodland, intertidal, and pelagic environments.…

Presents an approach that is used to introduce elementary and junior high students to a series of activities that will provide concrete experiences with acids, bases, and indicators. Provides instructions and listings of needed solutions and materials for developing this "magic sign" device. Includes background information and several student…