The Grand Canyon, the natural wonder visited most often in the United States, is explored on foot, on burro, and by boat in this article. Learn about the canyon's different rock layers as well as its erosion, plant life, animal life, and water flow. (JM)

Step-by-step instructions are given for constructing terrariums as a class project. (SJL)

Describes the use of an inflatable planetarium, the STARLAB, in teaching astronomy to elementary school students. (SA)

Suggests nonfiction science books and novels for an elementary unit on science fiction. (SJL)

Described is a science program for students in grades 3 and 4. Because there is only one hour per week set aside for science instruction, an attempt has been made to incorporate science into other subject areas. (KC)

Presents two sets of astronomy activities for elementary students: (1) constructing scale models of the solar system which depict relative distances and diameters, and (2) demonstrating the effects of factors responsible for the seasons. (WB)

Presents a six-step problem-solving process which the author has used to present creative science investigations to fourth, fifth, and sixth graders. (Author/SJL)

Different approaches to the teaching of elementary science are discussed. These include discussion inquiry, the counterintuitive approach, pictorial riddles, inventions, experiments, and demonstrations. (RLV)

Compares the traditional textbook-based elementary science teaching method with the following innovative approaches: (1) Inquiry; (2) Science-Technology-Society (STS); and (3) Conceptual Change. Argues that the Conceptual Change approach has the greatest impact on student thinking and permits teachers to focus on important aspects. (FMW)

Presents activities for helping elementary students learn about Newton's third law of motion. Several activity cards demonstrate the concept of the law of action and reaction. The activities require only inexpensive materials that can be found around the house. (SM)

This rationale for teaching elementary-level science using a hands-on approach emphasizes the importance of students learning the process by which an outcome arises rather than just remembering the outcome. The article encourages use of everyday objects rather than fancy scientific apparatus and offers suggestions for helping students undertake…

Twelve strategies for planning and implementing successful field trips are presented. Preplanning, bad weather, safety, budget, travel, chaperones, facilities of destination, lesson planning, time constraints, snacking, and special guests are topics of discussion. (KR)

Describes the geology and ecology of Chesapeake Bay. (PR)

Common questions that children ask can promote creative thinking. The question, "What will happen if...?" can set the stage for creative problem solving by encouraging the use of the scientific method. The scientific method involves learning how to hypothesize, recording procedures for experimentation, developing skills in observation and data…

Describes several activities using water as an investigative, manipulative, and highly sensory science material for young children. (Author/PEB)