The slime mold Physarum polycephalum provides an easily maintained classroom plant which can act like an animal. Directions are given for: acquiring the organism; activating it; observing its life cycle; and viewing protoplasmic streaming. (DH)

This article describes a science learning experience in which intermediate grade students launched balloons with attached postcards to study wind currents. More than 200 (of over 900 balloons) were returned, and their analysis supported the students' hypothesis about the direction of wind currents. (DB)

The concept of controlled experimentation is a skill that all students leaving high school should master. Teachers often attempt to find exciting and fun methods to expose students to this valuable skill. This science activity guide allows students to construct model rockets in an attempt to improve their abilities to conduct controlled…

Presents an inexpensive class activity to teach elementary students about light reflection off various surfaces. The activity involves aluminum foil, waxed paper, magazine pages, newspapers, overhead transparency film, construction paper, fabric, and a hand lens. A student page includes questions to make students think about reflection. (SM)

Presents a science activity that illustrates the need to collaborate in scientific inquiry. The example utilized describes the methods used by the Roman doctor Galen to treat epilepsy. (MDH)

Instead of a science fair, the author's intermediate school holds an invention convention. Guided by an Inventor's Log, students must problem solve, think creatively, and budget their time and resources to brainstorm and build an invention. The inventions are built at home, with parental support and supervision. Then, when everyone is ready, the…

The design of any solar heating system is influenced heavily by climate; in this bulletin, information on climate as related to solar heating is as related to solar heating is provided. Topics discussed include: (1) solar radiation; (2) degree days; (3) climate and calculations which make use of solar radiation and degree days; and (4)…

Provides guidelines for simple acceleration experiments with string and attached weights as a means to stimulate the reticular activating system (RAS) of the human brain. Several methods (discrepant events, curiosity, choices, and doubt) are suggested for promoting RAS high-level thought. String drop experiments provide concrete experiences with…

A list of materials needed and instructions are provided for an activity in which students create a mobile illustrating the balance of nature in a food web. Indicates that the activity works best with upper elementary grades. (JN)

This publication presents a science activity and instructional information on mechanics of granular materials, interparticle friction and geometric interlocking between particles which is a fundamental concept in many fields like earthquakes. The activity described in this document focuses on the principal strength of granular materials,…

Presents a series of investigations focusing on the biodegradable packing materials ("peanuts"), which provide a method for exploring science through experimentation. These activities can help fourth through sixth graders sharpen their critical thinking and science process skills. (PR)

Provides guidelines for translating university science laboratories into middle school science activities. The need for guidelines is based on the authors' discovery that teachers teach what they were taught. Discusses six expected outcomes of middle school science activities: developing science concepts; practicing process skills; quantitative…

Presents a class project to help upper elementary students grasp the extent of the solid waste disposal problem and develop an individual response. Includes background information for the teacher, project objectives, materials, procedures, and a listing for additional resources. (MCO)

Most people think that the artist and the scientist live in two totally different worlds. However, art and science are only two different ways of understanding and knowing the world. To help intermediate students make a connection between art and science, a collection of hands-on activities have been developed. By engaging in these activities that…

One skill that elementary students need to acquire is the ability to analyze spatially distributed data. In this activity students are asked to complete the following tasks: (1) plot a set of data (related to "mud-sharks"--an imaginary fish) on a map of the state of Alabama, (2) identify trends in the data, (3) make graphs using the data…