Discusses several research studies that relate directly to elementary school science inservice education projects. Studies reviewed focus on metric achievement; year-long projects; one-day projects; minicourses; curriculum changes; and periodic maintenance. Also cites criticisms of existing programs and qualities an effective inservice program…

Discusses experiences in teaching science in a Nepal village school. Includes comments on how science was refined and redefined to meet the needs of the Nepalese students and the need to make sense of science for all students. (JN)

Describes an interdisciplinary, ornithology unit suitable for grades 4-6. Art, mathematics, language arts, and social studies activities require approximately 2 weeks to complete. An annotated list of six references is included. (JN)

Provides information on "3-2-l CONTACT," a television series on science subjects. Indicates that 3-year taping rights (without charge) for in-school use are available for the entire series and that, since programs are closed-captioned, hearing-impared students with access to decoders can take advantage of the series. Broadcast information is…

Describes several simple activities to help children nurture their curiosity and order their experiences into simple understandings. These include: outlining familiar objects on paper; examining leaf patterns and flowers, moving water, and spiders; and touching and exploring various objects set up in learning centers. (JN)

Describes a unit on the physical properties of minerals. The unit, based on the learning-cycle approach, encourages students to move from single to more complex reasoning patterns. Concepts fostered are orderlines, quantification, and replication. (JN)

Presented is a position statement on science preparation for preservice elementary teachers. Areas addressed include: preparation in science content; science teaching methods; field experiences; faculty preparation; facilities, equipment, materials; and professional orientation. A list of recommended standards (intended to provide a framework for…

Presents a position statement on preparation of middle/junior high school science teachers. Areas addressed include: preparation in science content; science teaching methods; field experiences and student teaching; faculty preparation; facilities, equipment, materials; and professional orientation. Recommended standards (intended to provide a…

Discusses the history and evolution of measurement standards from 3000 BC to the modern metric system. Traces measurement techniques from comparisons with the human body to use of atomic clocks and lasers to establish the length of a meter. (JM)

Discusses the science of roller coasters, relating gravity, potential/kinetic energy, inertia, and centripetal force to the various parts of the ride, providing tips on linking classroom discussions to field trips. Includes sample student activity sheet and source for additional units using amusement park rides/playground activities to teach…

Addresses issues related to the mortality of elementary science programs, considering role of curriculum planners, teachers, and building principals. Gives examples of factors responsible (in the form of a "10 most wanted poster") with at least one countermeasure for each. (JM)

Science teachers in rural areas have the opportunity to present their students with concrete examples of science concepts they're studying simply by going outdoors. Examples presented focus on earth science, food webs, succession, and comparative ecology. Tips for developing topics using outdoor experiences are included. (JM)

Provides general information about documents available from the U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO). Describes how to get materials from GPO bookstores and gives their locations. Discusses bibliographies and guides to documents available and provides annotated lists of 40 items appropriate for use in elementary and/or junior high schools. (JM)

Describes a series of exercises designed to develop student's perceptual skills and to improve the processes of comparing, describing, and developing subsets. Includes suggestions for adapting the exercises into science lessons, providing tips for developing each into complete units. Units include human-made objects, leaves, shells, rocks, and…

Describes development of units to teach measuring skills using manipulative materials. Concepts fostered include repetition of identical units, comparison, and standardized units. Descriptions of activities on length and area and mass are given, as well as references for additional activities. (JM)