The Maryland Marine Science Education Project has produced a series of mini-units in marine science education for the junior high/middle school classroom. This unit focuses on the American oyster. Although the unit specifically treats the Chesapeake Bay, it may be adapted for use with similar estuarine systems. In addition, the unit may be…

This multidisciplinary unit deals with whales, whaling lore and history, and the interaction of the whale with the complex marine ecosystem. It seeks to teach adaptation of marine organisms. It portrays the concept that man is part of the marine ecosystem and man's activities can deplete and degrade marine ecosystems, endangering the survival of…

A survey of Alabama and Mississippi high school science teachers was conducted in the spring of 1979 as an initial step in the Man and the Gulf of Mexico (MGM) marine education project. Most teachers surveyed had little or no formal coursework pertaining to the marine sciences. The teachers felt they did not have adequate knowledge for teaching…

Analysis of Latin America's demographic situation has led many to believe that the present rapid rates of population growth, the highest anywhere in the world, must be reduced in order to prevent catastrophe. Family planning associations, affiliated with the International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF), have been organized in 29 Latin…

The study of plants is often limited to studying plant structure with little emphasis on the vital role plants play in our natural system and the variety of ways man uses plants. This unit, designed for intermediate level elementary students, reviews basic plant structure, discusses roles of plants in nature's system, illustrates plant…

Describes two lessons for helping children learn the concept of habitat. Shows how to make habitat hand mobiles, shoe box habitats, and suggests discussions involving these materials. (CW)

Outlines the evolution of thinking and the development of materials related to the biological component of the Science Education Project. Examines the context of the project within Southern African society and its relationship to curriculum development theory. Discusses possible models for the dissemination of knowledge. (RT)

This report takes a fresh look at the way in which people learn about biodiversity, its importance, and the role that the public can play in its conservation. People must interpret this new and challenging issue within a context that is both meaningful and familiar to them. This report is exploratory and illustrative, and uses current educational…

Provides lists of instructional strategies for elementary school science focusing on: (1) the biological sciences; (2) forces, movement, and energy, and (3) the physical sciences. (JN)

Activities are suggested for children following a neighborhood walk in search of autumn's nature collectibles. Simple and complex studies are suggested. (Author/SA)

Describes the development of a thematic ecosystem curriculum for a K-8 school, in partnership with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, in which park interpretation is merged with formal curricula. Notes that teachers and interpreters should work closely to develop curricula, and that interpreters must be familiar with textbooks and subject…

Describes a college course enhanced by hands-on science applications and a service-learning project. Requires registered students to participate in volunteer training at a nature center and offers certification in several environmental education curricula. Reports successful outcomes with regard to conceptual development and teaching experiences.…

Discusses the diversity of rain forest life, the adaptations of rain forest plants and animals, and ways these organisms interact. Includes activities on canopy critters with a copyable sheet, rain forest revue, design a plant, and jungle sleuths. (RT)

Describes the experiential learning sequence of a required senior-level natural science and environmental studies course; the role of a technical communication consultant contracted to conduct a needs assessment for improving the students' technical communications skills; and the consultant's results and recommendations. (MDH)

Describes a computer model characterizing the balance of soil-plant Nitrogen that allows students to see the likely consequences of different biological and weather-related parameters. Proposes three uses for the model: (1) orienting beginning students to understand the soil Nitrogen cycle; (2) providing information for advanced students; and (3)…