Background information, lists of materials needed, and procedures are provided for 12 experiments which focus on various aspects of pollution and the environment. Topics considered in the investigations are: (1) solids in the air; (2) effect of air pollution on nylon; (3) measuring lung capacity; (4) an electrical smoke trap; (5) photosynthesis;…

This environmental unit is one of a series designed for integration within an existing curriculum. The unit is self-contained and requires little teacher preparation. The philosophy of this series is based on an experience-oriented process that encourages self-paced independent student work. This particular unit is designed to involve students in…

Describes the factors which led to the development of the three year Human Sciences Program designed by the Biological Sciences Curriculum Study (BSCS) staff for the middle grades. Also presents the major learning and instructional characteristics of the Human Sciences modules. (HM)

Analyzes the Human Sciences Program (HSP) in the light of some issues related to basic skills. These issues are: (1) HSP and the three Rs; (2) HSP and other basics; and (3) HSP and classroom discipline. (HM)

Investigated developmental and/or sex components of energy attitudes using Kuhn's Energy Opinionnaire. Results indicate that changes in student attitudes through grade levels are consistent with cognitive and affective development literature and that sex differences are more pronounced in older students (with females having a more external world…

Investigated classroom management practices in 26 classes taught by 13 junior high and middle/junior high school teachers using student-on-task, off-task, and disruptive student behaviors as primary criteria of management effectiveness. Effective management practices for general classroom procedures, laboratory procedures, managing student…

Explains plausible strategies for introducing biotechnology into a science curricula through a microbiology course. Teaching strategies for large mixed-ability groups are presented. Concept maps, games, activities and materials references are included. (ML)

Compared effects of cooperative learning activities (with and without structured controversy) and individualistic learning activities on the achievement and attitudes of fifth graders (N=84) toward wolves. Results show that cooperative-controversy resulted in the highest achievement, greatest motivation to learn about wolves, and more positive…

A four-day field trip to Okefenokee swamp was a learning experience filled with variety for sixth grade students from North Carolina. Academic preparation, site activities (camping, observing, exploring, wading, and canoeing), and resource materials (for interested groups throughout the United States) are discussed. (DH)

Provides an introduction to wildlife management. Topics (suitable for upper elementary and secondary students) include habitat, carrying capacity, birth and death rate, population growth and decline, predator control, refuges, stocking, habitat management, hunting and trapping, and others. A list of instructional resource materials and sample…

The purpose of this study was to ascertain middle school student and science teacher perceptions of the science inquiry experiences fostered in their science classrooms and to develop a science inquiry profile based on survey information from students and teachers. Nine hundred seventeen middle school (grades 6-8) science students and their…

The Sisters in Science program seeks to increase elementary school girls' interest and achievement in science and mathematics, to create a more positive learning climate for minority school girls and their families on academic and community/social levels, and increase the knowledge base and understanding of parents with respect to their influence…

Advocates that two methods courses should be developed for each subject area in elementary education so that prospective teachers can specialize in either the primary (K-3) or intermediate grades (4-6). In particular, suggested differences in science methods courses at these two levels are discussed. (JR)

Using an adaptation of a measurement model suggested by the California State Department of Education, the following components are synthesized into the middle school curriculum: measurement, metric system, outdoor education, mathematics, and science. Seasonal outdoor metric measurement activities for grades five through eight are presented.…

Explores the idea that retention of particular concepts must occur before a student can transfer his learning to new situations. Investigates retention and transfer of fifth and sixth graders, in which achievement level was assessed on some advanced concepts as a function of performance on related basic concepts. (CS)