Describes a physics experiment investigating temperature prediction and the relationship between the physical properties of heat units, melting, dissolving, states of matter, and energy loss. Details the experimental setup, which requires hot and cold water, a thermometer, and ice. Notes that the experiment employs a deliberate counter-intuitive…

Describes a simple, inexpensive system that allows students to have hands-on contact with simple experiments involving forces generated by induced currents. Discusses the use of a dynamic force sensor in making quantitative measurements of the forces generated. (JRH)

A series of charts lists weekly activities for conducting a hands-on science laboratory in grades K-6. Arranged by grade level, the charts complement chapters in the "Gateways to Science" textbook series (McGraw-Hill, 1979). For each week, a concept to be explored is tagged to a 45-minute activity. This document was selected by the…

Describes the construction and use of an electrooptic apparatus that can be incorporated into the classroom to test liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and introduce students to experiments of an applied physics nature with very practical implications. Presents experiments that give students hands-on experience with technologies of current interest to…

Presents laboratory activities focusing on the development of sexually mature gametophytes from single-celled spores. Includes techniques for culture and manipulation of gametophyte development from spores that are applicable for hands-on activities for students at all levels. (MKR)

While rocks and minerals are often regarded as among the most static and solid objects, the body of knowledge of which they are part is always changing. This teachers guide contains activities and experiments designed to enhance students understanding of geology and petrology. By examining actual specimens of the Earth's crust, students learn…

Elementary teachers can use weather folklore to help students explore and discover facts about weather. An experiment with woolly bear caterpillars examines whether their stripes can predict what kind of winter weather there will be. A investigation about moon halos and rain gives students experience setting up investigations based on questions…

Presents a set of hands-on, outdoor science experiments designed to teach elementary school students about animal adaptation. The experiments focus on: how color camouflage affects an insect population; how spiderlings find a home; and how chameleons camouflage themselves by changing color. (SM)

Often elementary and junior high teachers search for effective, inexpensive, and easy-to-understand science activities. This document was designed with those teachers and their students in mind. It provides hands-on science activities that focus around three components: (1) themes--broad, unifying ideas that pervade science, math and technology;…

This book provides opportunities for engaging students in scientific investigations, offering a hands-on approach that encourages students to understand science concepts, gives them ways to apply the concepts, and introduces and reinforces the skills they need to become independent investigators. The basic outline and objectives of each section of…

Describes experiments to culture cells in a laboratory that provide students with hands-on experience in manipulating cells and a chance to observe cell growth characteristics first hand. Exposes students to sterile technique, cell culture, cell growth concepts, and eukaryotic cell structure. (JRH)

This book contains construction plans of exhibits that have been collected during more than 10 years, and notes for their maintenance, at the Ann Arbor (Michigan) Hands-On museum. It is a useful source of hard-to-find information for exhibit builders, science fair participants, science teachers, students, and home tinkerers. This collection…

Describes two laboratory exercises corresponding to studies of statics and dynamics to illustrate the concept that the combination of real and simulated laboratory tools, with some real data being recorded in computer-aided form, can result in a very sound understanding of physical principles. (JRH)

The purpose of this guide is to highlight some broad areas in which teachers and other adults have exceptional opportunities to encourage and enjoy teaching children science. Each area in the book provides some hands-on ideas for projects as well as an annotated list of readily available resources that might prove helpful on the topic at hand. The…

Describes a simple, safe, and inexpensive hands-on demonstration of normal and abnormal coagulation using bovine blood plasma. (JRH)