The reform movement in science education as characterized by the development of new science curricula in the 1960s is analyzed in this information bulletin. An overview of the historical context and the financial extent of the movement is presented. Perspectives on the curricula are offered in a question format. The questions include: (1) what did…

This series of experiments seeks to provide laboratory exercises which demonstrate concepts in Earth Science, particularly meteorology. Materials used in the experiments are easily obtainable. Examples of experiments include: (1) making a thermometer; (2) air/space relationship; (3) weight of air; (4) barometers; (5) particulates; (6) evaporation;…

This guide provides the interested student with a wide range of astronomical investigations that require a minimum of equipment. Activities focus on analysis and understanding of numerous celestial events which are observable every day. The guide is intended to lead the amateur through initial steps in the understanding of some of the functions of…

Discussed are meteors from an historical and astronomical viewpoint; then presented is the chemical makeup of iron meteorites, stony meteorites, and stony-iron meteorites. Age determination, moon craters, and tektites are also treated. The interested observer learns how to identify meteorites and to describe how they fall. (Author/RE)

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)

The focus of this curriculum report is on the earth sciences in the K-12 curriculum. High technologies have combined to produce telecommunications, the newest aid and impetus to earth sciences education. Listed in this report are educational service organizations and individual schools that have this service. Included are the names, addresses, and…

This bulletin addresses the topic of out-of-school science education (OSSE) as it is occurring and developing in the countries of the Asia and Pacific region of Unesco. Out-of-school programs/activities are both complementary of and supplementary to science education in the schools, providing activities that the constraints of schooling usually…

This series of experiments seeks to provide laboratory exercises which demonstrate concepts in Earth Science, particularly oceanology. Materials used in the experiments are easily obtainable. Examples of experiments include: (1) comparison of water hardness; (2) preparation of fresh water from sea water; (3) determination of water pressure; (4)…

This issue of Exploratorium Magazine focuses on the topic robotics. It explains how to make a vibrating robotic bug and features articles on robots. Contents include: (1) "Where Robot Mice and Robot Men Run Round in Robot Towns" (Ray Bradbury); (2) "Robots at Work" (Jake Widman); (3) "Make a Vibrating Robotic Bug" (Modesto Tamez); (4) "The Robot…

Presented are analytical abstracts, prepared by science educators, of research reports in the areas of instruction, mainstreaming, curriculum, classroom learning environment, and the educational use of planetaria. Each abstract includes bibliographical data, research design and procedure, purpose, research rationale, and an abstractor's analysis…

This collection of articles, originally published in national and international journals, is fifth in a series devoted to trends in teaching chemistry. The volume is divided into nine sections, each with an introduction explaining why papers have been selected and outlining their particular interest. Section I provides a list of atomic masses,…

Discussed are the importance of soil to plant and animal life, the evolution of a soil profile, and the major kinds of soil in the United States. On a suggested field trip, students examine different kinds of soil profiles; they also measure soil acidity and water-holding capacity. Suggestions for further study are provided along with references…

The Search for Excellence in Science Teaching and Career Awareness was undertaken to recognize programs that have proven to be innovative in leading students to greater career awareness. This document lists and explains the criteria for excellence in this search and provides descriptions of the five exemplary programs that were selected. Program…

Suggested are methods for the collection of field evidence about processes that form plutonic and metamorphic rock. Description and discussion of these types of rocks are provided. The planning and execution of a successful field trip is discussed. Advanced field projects are also discussed. Included are five appendices, references, and a…

Abstracts and abstractors' critiques of nine published research reports related to problem solving, elementary school science, science process skills, and curriculum and instruction are presented. Aspects addressed in the studies include: (1) problem-solving skills of high school chemistry students; (2) spatial puzzles and the assessment of…