Presents information on the planet Mercury and points out how little is known about this planet which is much closer than Pluto. Features a list of visible planets and moon phases. (YDS)

Introduces Global 200, a new science-based approach to the conservation of wildlife. Includes a glossary, the Wild World map, Wild World activity ideas, and a resources list. (YDS)

Changes in teachers' beliefs affect their efficacy in teaching. Points out that change requires a great deal of time and effort. Reports on some of the research-based teacher beliefs. (Contains 12 references.) (YDS)

Presents 10 steps that help teachers and students create a motivating and relevant simulation on an environmental topic of local interest. Steps include gathering information, selecting the problem, interviewing community members, determining interest groups, investigating interest groups, choosing the decision-making body and setting the…

Explains that motor oils can be reused and recycled. Educates students about environmental hazards and oil management and includes classroom activities. Addresses the National Science Education Standards. (YDS)

Points out the high percentage of African-American boys that believe that they can make a living playing professional sports and presents an activity that addresses the probability of a student athlete becoming a professional athlete. (YDS)

Density is a derived quantity that can be confusing for middle school students. In this article, the author describes how he used a graphical depiction of mass and volume to guide his sixth-grade students in understanding and applying this concept. In the activity, students collected various materials, then discussed and tested whether each of the…

Uses National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) posters and the information behind them as instructional materials to connect real world science to the classroom. Provides a list of resources. (YDS)

Presents a strategy for teaching students about geological formations. Involves using topographic maps to build models for the classroom. (JRH)

Discusses alternative assessment and how it helps teaching practices. Defines embedded assessment as an ongoing, cyclical process in which teachers gather information on students' understanding and reasoning about content knowledge, then make sense and use the information to make adjustments for teaching in response to students' learning needs.…

Introduces a lesson plan on the role of the acorn and its complex community of biotic relationships between animal and fungal organisms. Introduces students to ecological concepts through acorn investigations including dissection of acorns and exploring the organisms' interaction web. (YDS)

Introduces an activity on water that encourages students to learn about water use and conservation. Focuses on the ways in which water is used in homes, the water cycle, and water conservation. (YDS)

Explains the use of questioning strategies to improve student achievement. Uses question-answer relationship (QAR) and reciprocal questioning (ReQuest) strategies. (YDS)

Presents an activity exploring the basics of atomic structure using the theme of the Addams Family. (MKR)

Discusses the value of instructional variety for middle school students. (YDS)