The "Forty Electronic Challenges" is a "discovery learning" and socio-constructivist science activity that has become rather popular in Canada. The article recalls its emergence and development. It discusses its theoretical underpinnings and how it fits into the existing literature. It then gives educators all the guidelines…

Regardless of the cost and long preparation time, tactile materials are increasingly being used in science and mathematics education for students with visual impairment. In this study, a hands-on tactile activity related to making magnets using a STEM educational approach for students with visual impairment are introduced.

The Periodic Table of Elements is a valuable resource for chemists and all kinds of STEM professionals. However, it can be initially overwhelming and intimidating to some students. This hands-on lesson introduces abstract concepts in the periodic table through a tangible experience with simple toys and household objects. Students collaborate and…

Creation of physical models can help students learn science by enabling them to be more involved in the scientific process of discovery and to use multiple senses during investigations. This activity achieves these goals by having students model ocean currents in the Gulf of Mexico. In general, oceans play a key role in influencing weather…

This feature is an interview of Professor Geneva Gay, a leader and expert in multicultural education, especially multicultural curriculum. She graciously consented to a telephone interview, which was recorded. The interview was then transcribed by a professional; this feature is the result of that interview.

Science literacy circles incorporate the organization of both science notebooks and literature circles to help K-8 students internalize big ideas about science. Using science literacy circles gives students opportunities to engage in critical thinking as they inductively develop understanding about science concepts. (Contains 1 table and 7…

Science education reached the headlines of the local newspaper: "Foundation donates $33M! American Chemical Society gets support for chemistry teaching." This windfall came from the Hach Scientific Foundation in Fort Collins, Colorado. The $33 million will go to continue three programs initiated by the Hach Scientific Foundation. One…

In this inquiry-based, integrative art and science activity, Grade 5-8 students use multicolored Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) crystallizing solutions to reveal beautiful, cylindrical, 3-dimensional, needle-shaped structures. Through observations of the crystal art, students analyze factors that contribute to crystal size and formation, compare…

Describes a variety of water erosion situations which can be shown with the use of a streamtable. Individual and group experiments are suggested and photographs of some situations which may be created are provided. (CP)

Describes an inquiry procedure to determine whether soft drinks are pressure or vacuum packed and then utilizes the "pop" theme for several other science activities. (LS)

Demonstrates how students can build a plankton net using common materials for environmental education. (LS)

Provides a table showing average power consumption rates for many home appliances. With this, a variety of student activities dealing with energy consumption are suggested. (CP)

Describes the procedures in growing thymol crystals and suggests eight activities which can be carried out by students in examining crystals. (BR)