Observing and documenting elements of weather teach children about using tools and their senses to learn about the environment. This column discusses resources and science topics related to students in grades preK to 2. This month's issue describes an activity where students indirectly document local weather by counting outdoor clothing types worn…

Although weather, including its role in the water cycle, is included in most elementary science programs, any further examination of raindrops and snowflakes is rare. Together rain and snow make up most of the precipitation that replenishes Earth's life-sustaining fresh water supply. When viewed individually, raindrops and snowflakes are quite…

Suggests how simple hikes can be integrated into the elementary school curriculum. Presents nine topic areas that can serve as themes for schoolyard hikes. (ML)

Describes a two-day field trip, along with follow-up classroom activities and experiments which relate to water resources and water quality. Discusses how trips to a lake and water treatment facilities can enhance appreciation of water. (TW)

Encourages teachers to take advantage of the natural curiosity of young children in enhancing their interest in science. Describes four simple activities involving water, living and non-living things, air pollution, and food. (TW)

Describes a simple field trip taken by fourth-grade students to a local park. Aided by volunteers, students go through four learning stations dealing with rock studies, tree identification, following directions (mapping), and observation skills. Presite and postsite activities are discussed. (TW)

Describes a set of field trips for participants of the Coastal Environmental Education for Primary Grades program in Georgia. Includes a sample of the activities used by first- and second-grade students. Discusses follow-up activities and the need for more educational programs dealing with sand dunes and saltwater marshes. (TW)

Describes methods for collecting insects including a ground trap, a light trap, a kill jar, and a "pooter." Includes illustrations and directions for making the collecting instruments. (MA)

Discusses the beach and nearshore environment, including dune formation and ecology. Includes a lesson plan for dune and beach activities. (MA)

Presents thirteen concepts about water and suggests science activities for each. Designed as early childhood learning experiences. (MA)

Presents activities for the elementary teacher to use in helping children to enjoy a small path of undeveloped land in an urban area. Teaching about plant roots is explained. Also included is the equipment needed and how to prepare for the root activities. (SA)

Described is a resource idea developed for the teaching of oceanography to junior high students. Sand is studied to help make the study of beaches more relevant to students who may have never seen an ocean. Sand samples are brought into the classroom from various coastal cities, then analyzed and compared. (Author/DS)

Discussed is the intertidal region and the characteristics and adaptations of the organisms that live in that region. Several activities that involve the intertidal region are described, which reinforce the adaptive behaviors and forms of the organisms found in the intertidal region. (Author/DS)

Describes a summer science program for suburban upper-elementary and junior high students. The students are involved in field ecology experiences including stream studies, fossil collecting, and dissections of organisms. (SA)

Discusses "The Big Empty" or, the Great Basin. Suggests that it is not empty but rather a great ecosystem rich in plants, animals, and minerals. Presents information and activities to guide students in exploring the Great Basin in order to understand the ways in which such an arid and seemingly harsh environment can support so many…