Argumentation as a scientific practice has largely been examined along an epistemic and/or dialogic perspective in science education research. Both perspectives have sidelined the use of real material objects that are indispensable for scientists to construct arguments about the natural world. To address this gap, this article investigates how…

This study examined what kinds of groups can be identified according to students' task-values across four subject domains (languages, math and science, social sciences, practical subjects) and the related gender differences using a person-centered approach. Latent class analysis was applied to classify 638 students (mean age = 15) into four…

This is the final test for students in the ninth-grade science course offered in Alberta (Canada) schools. Intended for administration during June 1985, it contains 75 multiple-choice questions. Ninety minutes are allowed for completing the test. An answer key is not included. (JN)

Secondary school chemical education has a problem: namely, the seeming irrelevance to the pupils of chemistry. Chemical education prepares pupils for participation in society. Therefore, it must imply a model of society, of chemistry, and of the relation between them. In this article it is hypothesized that logical positivism currently offers this…

Investigated how 11 9th-grade Portuguese physics textbooks dealt with heat and temperature and whether they were adequate information sources for students. Examination of ideas (which included correctness of concepts and arguments, global teaching approach, and learning activities) indicated that most of the textbooks were not consistent with…

Identifies, describes, and categorizes events occurring between members of different learning groups in three ninth-grade physical science classrooms. Explains how concepts, ideas, tools, tool-related practices, and materials diffused throughout the classroom environment were appropriated by learners in various ways to contribute to the…

The purpose of the present study is to examine the effect of instruction based on constructivist approach on 9th grade students' understanding of chemical bonding concepts (n=41). Also, the effects of gender differences were investigated. Control group students were taught by traditional instruction. Experimental group students were instructed by…

Examines relationships among observer, teacher, and student perceptions of what was occurring in 9th grade science classrooms to better understand the inter-relationships between the different perspectives. Shows that students and teachers view their classes differently, although the factor structures had some similarity. Also concludes that…

Examined the use of "Writing Frames" to enhance ninth grade students' science investigations. Students were taught to use "Writing Frames" booklets and language cues booklets for "writing up" their science projects. Surveys of participants and nonparticipants indicated that participants had increased scores on various…

The goal of this research is to compare the effectiveness of two teaching methods (inducing a cognitive conflict, or ICC, versus direct teaching, DT) for students of two academic levels (low versus high) regarding gains in the ability to use the control of variables strategy. 121 students who learned in a heterogeneous school were divided into…

In a previous article, the problem of chemistry's lack of relevance in secondary chemical education was analysed using logical positivism as a tool. This article starts with the hypothesis that the problem can be addressed by means of activity theory, one of the important theories within the sociocultural school. The reason for this expectation is…

Reports ninth-grade students reactions to statements about science and how science affects their lives. Data taken from the questionnaires of the Second International Science Study indicated that students had a positive view of science but seemed to become more critical as science began to have an impact on their lives. (ML)

Reports the findings of a study which examined the knowledge and problem-solving strategies used by 14 ninth grade biology students to solve three types of basic genetics problems. Concludes that although most students could solve problems correctly, they sometimes lacked meaningful understanding or could not interrelate concepts. (DC)

Explores linking the teaching of science to everday situations, with the idea that science education is particularly suited for the development of critical thinking habits. Conclusions are made regarding the "prompting effect" of everyday topics in the ability of ninth-grade biology students to recognize logical fallacies. (CS)

Investigates the performance, gender differences, interrelationships among five tasks, relationship with paper and pencil tests, relationships with background variables, and contribution of schools from the Israel data of the Second International Science Study (SISS). Compares the Israeli results with those of Japan. (YP)