This document addresses some of the factors involved in teaching critical thinking skills in the science classroom. It contains sections that deal with: (1) pair problem solving--creating a Socratic learning environment (emphasizes the role of the teacher); (2) writing to learn science (the thought-process protocol); (3) integrating science…

Designed to supplement a short course for middle school children and their parents, this manual provides sets of learning experiences about electronic communication devices. The program is intended to develop positive attitudes toward science and technology in both parents and their children and to take the mystery out of some of the electronic…

The nighttime astronomy course described in this manual is designed to allow parents and middle school children to learn together. Using the resources of the planetarium and the real sky, the document provides a series of lessons that are intended to enable the participants to become more knowledgeable observers of the night sky. The course is…

This is the sixth volume in a series designed to improve mathematics instruction by providing resource materials for those responsible for mathematics teaching. Focusing on out-of-school mathematics education, this volume presents a panorama of current practices around the world and suggests future trends. Subjects considered include: (1)…

The reading learning objectives for ninth graders contained in this volume are congruent with the Texas "State Board of Education Rules for Curriculum." These objectives and the measurement specifications are provided for use by teachers and other educators responsible for student instruction and for test development specialists involved…

Several research studies that can provide direction for improving elementary school science programs are highlighted. Selected results are summarized and suggestions given to elementary school administrators for translating research into action in their schools, action which can lead to improved teaching and learning in science. Studies are…

This paper describes the characteristics of the Minimum Skills Diagnostic Tests (MSDTs) components of the statewide testing program in North Carolina. The MSDTs' validity, method for deriving test scores, reliability and other statistics, test content, and test norms are discussed. These tests--given in grades 3, 6, and 8--assess an individual's…

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) reports on the status and progress of educational achievement in the United States. Based on its surveys, "The Nation's Report Card" provides comprehensive information about what students in the United States can do in various subject areas. The framework for the 1990 mathematics…

Materials and suggestions are provided for inservice activities to help elementary and secondary school teachers use community resources to enhance classroom experiences. Section I contains reprints of two articles promoting teacher involvement with community resources. This section also lists objectives and the rationale for using community…

This manual is designed to help school district personnel assess the extent of substance abuse and to develop policies and procedures for dealing with the problem through the cooperation of schools, parents and communities. The effect of social change on adolescents is discussed and trends in developmental distress are noted. Roles and…

Background information and exemplary units for teaching science in Georgia's middle school grades are provided. Discussed in the first section are: (1) the rationale for including science in middle school grades, focusing on science/society/technology, science/social issues, scientific reasoning, and scientific literacy; (2) role of science…

This manual presents ideas, techniques, strategies, and suggestions for those interested in creating interagency programs and planning development of Community Service Centers. Chapter 1 overviews linkages leading to formation of Community Service Centers. It considers motivation, levels of interagency linkages, and interagency opportunities for…

The report describes Creative Resources Enriching Student Talents (C.R.E.S.T.), a Title IVC project designed to encourage individual creative growth in gifted/talented children by stimulating them to solve problems within the areas of academics and the creative arts; the program is used in elementary schools in Lebanon, a rural Connecticut…

Reference materials for the educator who has an employment-related grievance are presented. Basic principles and rights of employment and general procedures for filing a grievance both within and outside an employing institution are examined. The procedures apply for educators at the K-12 level, in higher education, and in social service agencies.…

The usage and availability of calculators, computers, and related instructional materials are presented. This publication is a Know-Pak, a summary of materials and articles that is part of a series of information packets developed by the Oregon Department of Education. Topics covered include: (1) a forecast of a computer literacy crisis in…