Samara (winged seeds from maple and ash trees) can be used for open-ended inquiry or a series of directed science activities. Attributes, observations/inferences, drawing, motion, floating, seed structure, creative design, and measurement are some of the suggestions for classroom use of these seeds. (DH)

Presents an annotated bibliography of outstanding children's science books published in 1983 that are recognized by the National Science Teachers Association as accurate, readable, and pleasing. The information contained in each book is considered consistent with current scientific knowledge. The appropriate grade level for each book is included.…

Describes science activities related to Christmas and Thanksgiving, including identification of evergreen trees, tree shapes, pine cone and needle collections, edible decorations, and instructions for preparing bird food called "bird pudding." (SK)

Describes the process of collecting and maintaining a culture of protozoa. Instructions are also given for constructing a micropipette for transfering small organisms. (SA)

Lists outstanding science trade books published in 2000. Explains the selection process and places the books into categories including: (1) Archaeology, Anthropology, and Paleontology; (2) Biography; (3) Earth and Space Science; (4) Environment and Ecology; (5) Life Science; (6) Physical Science; (7) Science-Related Careers; and (8) Technology and…

Described is the use of praying mantises as organisms to illustrate the concept of predator. (PEB)

Describes the use of a unit on arthropods as a device for helping children develop an awareness and appreciation of the living environment. (PEB)

Presents guidelines for the construction and maintenance of a life science culture center with mobile and stationary units. (CP)

Suggests using ring doves in the classroom for observing behavior patterns and the entire reproductive cycle. Requirements for space, food, and care are minimal and easily obtained. Students can observe: male participation in nest-building; care of young; and (using candlelight) embryos and heartbeats because of the thin egg shells these birds…

Describes elementary school science trade books written in Spanish. Topics considered in these books include: animal life; astronomy; biology; earth sciences; mathematics; general science; and general technology. (DH)

Described are activities that can be performed in the classroom by observing living hermit crabs. Tips for the care, feeding, and keeping of crabs in the classroom are also included. (SL)

Described are various activities for studying the behavior of pill bugs (isopods) in the classroom. Details for constructing an observation box are also included. (SL)

Describes several simple activities to help children nurture their curiosity and order their experiences into simple understandings. These include: outlining familiar objects on paper; examining leaf patterns and flowers, moving water, and spiders; and touching and exploring various objects set up in learning centers. (JN)

The act of attributing human emotions to nonhuman animals (personification) may lead to misconceptions by young students who may not be able to distinguish fact from fiction. Three major types of personification (animism, anthropomorphism, and teleology) are briefly reviewed with related examples. (DS)