This book is designed to develop sequentially a range of concepts and skills relevant to the basic disciplines of science. Emphasis has been given to the knowledge basis of science, the social context of science, design and technology, and knowledge and skills relevant to personal development. Students are provided an opportunity to engage in guided and unguided inquiry, use library references, and to ask other people for information. Students are encouraged to record their observations, make tables, make drawings, and note their conclusions. Chapters include: (1) "You Are a Scientist"; (2) "The Nature of Living Things"; (3) "Using our Senses"; (4) "The World through the Microscope"; (5) "Water"; (6) "Plants and Soils"; (7) "Magnetism"; and (8) "Heating and Separating Chemical Substances." Each chapter includes background information, activities, experiments, and revision questions. Activities and experiments list materials, procedures, and questions. Appendices include a skills and sequence chart, laboratory safety rules, writing a report, and a glossary. (CW)