Describes the use of the "Arcane (mysterious) Can" which is a "tin" can which is permanently sealed, both air- and water-tight, by means of a home canning device. The canning procedure permits the use of a large variety of materials which can not be utilized in the ordinary mystery box. This Can activity is valuable for…

Suggests using food as a resource for the discovery and experimental methods of learning with preschoolers. (BR)

This material describes curriculum specifications for grade 6 science in Alberta. Emphases recommended are: (1) process skills (50%); (2) psychomotor skills (10%); (3) attitudes (10%); and (4) subject matter (30%). Priorities within each category are identified. (YP)

Elementary science instruction in the Tenafly Public Schools became virtually nonexistent in the early 1980's and based on this realization, members of that school system embarked upon a 3-year curriculum renewal cycle. The process followed in the curriculum development plan is somewhat unique and may serve as a model for other school districts to…

Several factors have been identified that influence a teachers' use of curriculum materials. This paper focuses on the development of materials as a key factor in this process. Clarification is given on how a sophisticated design of curriculum materials can improve curricular implementation processes and outcomes. An overview of the implementation…

Data were collected from grades 3 to 8 students (N=377) in order to identify the determinants of their intentions to perform laboratory and non-laboratory science activities. Fishbein and Ajzen's Theory of Reasoned Action was used as the basis for the study. The theory posits that the immediate determinant of behavior is intention. Intention is…

Many believe that children begin to learn science from the moment they start to perceive their environment. They have an innate need to make sense of what happens. Little by little, they form a useful model of the world around them. Before children go to school, they exercise their natural curiosity daily. School can expand a child's understanding…

Previous research of classroom teaching and learning revealed that students have critical misconceptions about how plants get their food and that these misconceptions remain unchanged despite instruction using activities in the Science Curriculum Improvement Study (SCIIS) unit on producers. Because the experimental sequence described in SCIIS is…

Presents comments on problems voiced by teachers about conducting science fairs with middle school children, also cites some advantages of science fairs. A list of simple experiments is offered that are considered within the interests and intellectual range of middle school children. (Author/EB)

Describes elementary school activities and questions which center on the life cycle of the woolly bear caterpillars. (MLH)

Describes exploratory activities for a young child seeking to become acquainted with the world in which he lives. (EB)

Lists the advantages of having insects as classroom animals and suggests lessons utilizing them for science, English, social studies and mathematics. (LS)

Presents the inside story of how an elementary school science curriculum incorporated into its program the building of a greenhouse, built at very low cost due to student and community enthusiasm. Materials and palns are described. (EB)

This article tells how to prepare and use frog leg bones in the classroom. (BB)