The No Child Left Behind Act (2001) placed pressure on elementary teachers to raise standardized test scores in reading and mathematics. Unfortunately, the focus on reading and math has led to reduced time for science instruction. Mandatory standardized testing in science began in elementary schools across the United States in 2007. Instructing…

Field trips provide active learning as children have firsthand experience with information they had previously encountered only in textbooks. In this article, the author describes how she used an interesting textbook to plan a field trip for her elementary social studies methods class to Oakwood Cemetery in Montgomery (Alabama). The textbook,…

Students make many choices over a long period, and choose a career through a complicated process. This process includes formal instruction in mathematics and science, and the opportunity for informal education in museums, science centers, and recreational programs. The influence of family, teachers, peers, and the electronic media can make an…

Evaluates an elementary textbook (Journeys in Science, volume 3) on thermodynamics. Points out some inadequate expressions and explains the reasons. (YP)

Discusses the concept of the school library media specialist as a teacher and the notion that the school library media center supports curriculum. Textbooks and curriculum, purpose of the school library, and self-concept of library users are highlighted. An 18-item bibliography is included. (EJS)

Factors suggested as accounting for poor problem solving are inadequate programs for teaching problem solving, choice of operation, and the number of problems. (MP)

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

Discusses the importance of enthusiastic, knowledgeable teachers in teaching science to middle school students. Maintains that when teachers create environments that foster curiosity, encourage risk-taking, and involve students as co-learners, the textbook is included as a guide and resource with several other materials. Questions the notion that…

Discusses science education in India, arguing that a contextualized curriculum is a powerful means of improvement. The paper presents results from an analysis of the treatment of the nature of science and technology in current Indian textbooks and uses India's controversial Sadar Sarovar Hydro-Electric Project as a case example. (SM)

Argues that curriculum integration may lead to a diminution of social studies content. Contends that classroom activities done in the name of curriculum integration often have no educational value. Provides five guidelines to determine whether an instructional activity is appropriate for curriculum integration. (CFR)

Discusses social studies as an area of study in which to apply a variety of strategies for improving the reading comprehension of students. Important factors that can aid students in improving reading comprehension are considered, including understanding textbook organization, vocabulary improvement, speed reading, following directions, and…

Examines ways in which description and explanation are used in science teaching, including word usage and the role of activities. Considers the desirable characteristics of explanation for teaching purposes. Raises major questions about explanation in science education. Shows the need to make a clear distinction between description and…

Indicates the inadequacies and limitations of traditionally written elementary science textbooks. Offers suggestions and provides examples for teaching more accurately and experientially the nature and process of science. Identifies several sources for enrichment of the textbook. (ML)

The results of a National Research Council report on the status of biology education in the United States are discussed. Poorly trained and supported teachers, a curriculum that seems designed to snuff out interest, inappropriately used standardized tests, and textbooks that are often inaccurate and misleading were found. Recommendations are…

This paper focuses on the factors which precipitated a violent conflict over the introduction of certain textbooks and supplementary reading materials in Kanawha County, West Virginia, in 1974. The paper analyzes and reviews the developments that occurred from April 1974 to February 1975 and examines the issues that were raised. A description of…