Assesses whether British secondary schools have altered the scope and pattern of science course offerings. Data on science entry examinations indicate that increases in selection of balanced science courses have occurred. Gains in female entries are noted. (ML)

Summarizes two research studies on: (1) suitability of science reading materials at CSE and O levels, and (2) effects of single sex and coeducation on science subject (N=1200) preferences and choices at 14+. Discusses spider diagrams, what is science, and problems and solutions in chemistry teaching in post-16 institutions. (DS)

Two separate reports are presented. The first report describes an activity-based science program for students who have English as a second language. Results of an investigation into the educational experiences and attitudes of girls studying physical science are discussed in the second report. (ML)

Addresses several questions related to British secondary students' choices in science, particularly as they relate to gender differences. Cites several national surveys that suggest that girls tend to choose biological science courses, while boys choose physical and technological science courses. (TW)

Some observations of general progress and of gender-related differences in achievement when using construction sets in the early years are presented. Included are the results of two studies which examined the use of Lego construction sets by children age six to eight. (CW)

Reports the results of a study in England and Wales relating to the attitudes of third year secondary school children toward science and scientists. Students expressed a generally favorable impression of scientists and their work, however, boys' attitudes toward science at school were more positive than the attitudes of girls. (JR)

Four reports are presented including "Alternative Approaches to Assessment of Practical Work in Science"; "Introducing Multicultural Science Teaching to a Secondary School"; "A Case Study on the Relative Performance of Boys and Girls in Chemistry Part II"; and "An INSET Technique--Developing a New Consensus." (CW)

Three reports are presented including "Do Practical Subjects Encourage Understanding of Science?"; "What Is an Anti-Racist Atom?"; and "Taking the Plunge with Role Play. Departmental In-Service Using SATIS Materials." (CW)

Included in this section are articles on the following topics: science education for pupils with learning difficulties, the Engineering Council, differential achievement in early childhood according to sex, a peer tutoring program, and suggestions for involving students in recording their own achievement. (CW)

Statistical findings show that factors other than personal preference influence choice of secondary science subject. Both boys and girls who "dislike" a particular science course were found to take the course anyway, and girls who "like" a science course (either physics or chemistry) were found often to drop the course. (CS)

Eight articles are included in this collection. Topics include: multicultural science, teaching science with metaphors, development of a graded assessment scheme in science, relative performance of boys and girls in chemistry, promoting science understanding, formative evaluations, science background of primary teachers, and promoting creativity…

Designates Frank Halliwell as an inspiring science teacher who employed the demonstration lecture method very effectively. Traces the origin and development of this method to John Tyndall and provides numerous examples of his work. (DDR)

Investigates the influence of differing elementary science experiences on the interests of girls and boys in secondary school science. Attempts to link these experiences with science performance. Focuses on the elementary experience of girls and compares the sexes. (CW)

Suggesting a distinction between student attitudes toward science as a school subject (SUBATT) and toward the social implications of science (SOCATT), reports results of a study using various measures focusing on SOCATT and SUBATT of approximately 2,200 students in 33 schools, including findings related to sex differences. (DS)

Pattern changes in science education are analyzed for the years 1962-77 in relation to pure science subjects studied by students. Numbers are analyzed of boy/girl entrants involved in (1) a balanced science course and (2) at least one pure science subject. (CS)