In this article, the author discusses how global warming makes the leap from the headlines to the classroom with thought-provoking science experiments. To teach her fifth-grade students about climate change, the author starts with a discussion of the United States' local climate. They extend this idea to contrast the local climate with others,…

Discussed is the nature of the classroom experience in the United States for girls including teaching methods and assessment. A brief analysis of the problem is presented. Six specific suggestions for improving instruction for girls are included. (CW)

Discussed are the ways that misconceptions about chemistry are acquired by presecondary children. Several recommendations for teaching chemistry to children are presented including the use of variety, hands-on experiences, critical thinking skills, and appropriate timing of concepts. (CW)

Indicates and describes items that are incorrect in textbooks and a teacher edition of Discover SCIENCE for K-6. (YP)

Children come to school with a foundation for formal learning from their early experiences with interactions of the natural and technological world. Failure of elementary schools to build on this experience can discourage children, especially those who do not identify readily with the science establishment (girls, blacks, Hispanics, and the…

Discussed is the importance of marine education and experience with the seashore in helping children to adopt positive attitudes about nature. (CW)

The use of the inquiry approach in the teaching of elementary science is examined and advocated in this publication. The position that an inquiry approach is the best way to teach and learn science is upheld and its influence on the development of positive attitudes towards science is stressed. Section titles include: (1) "A Tale of Two Teachers"…

Science, society, nature, and culture are interacting forces on the lives of all people. They become increasingly complex with time. In this address, a perspective of science, technology, and society is offered and suggestions and recommendations are made for how teachers can and should integrate this topic effectively into instructional programs.…

This paper provides background information for setting science education goals. The first part, "History of Reform in Science Education," describes: (1) the National Science Foundation (NSF) curriculum materials and their characteristics in the late 1950s; (2) the milestone studies and the status of science education in the 1970s; and (3) the…

Addresses whether or not science laboratory activities should become a thing of the past. Discusses the impact of the curriculum reforms of the 1960s and 1970s, physical restraints which cause teacher overload, rationale, and objectives of laboratory work. (RT)

This report is a blueprint for the creation of an effective, national program of science education for elementary school children in the United States. It draws together information about curriculum, instruction, assessment, and teacher development for elementary science. It was written in response to a widely expressed need to improve education…

This paper presents a viewpoint on educator responsibilities toward helping youth develop the skills necessary to cope with life as well as consideration on how to present science in a safe environment. Discussions include safety in the learning environment, litigation, effective teaching, effective schools, the goals of science, and the mandate…

Argues that the recent "crisis" in science education was unfounded. Claims that the reduction in federal funding through the National Science Foundation in 1981 was the real problem that precipitated the concerns about scientific literacy. (TW)

Describes methods for teaching mechanics. Concepts included are force, inertial frames, and rotation. Emphasizes how to feel or observe them. (YP)

Discusses the definition of scientific literacy, the curriculum of primary and secondary schools, scientists and teachers, cooperation with industry, and the resources and morale of teachers. (YP)