ERIC Number: ED532582
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2012-Jun
Pages: 13
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Great Explorations in Math and Science[R] (GEMS[R]) Space Science. What Works Clearinghouse Intervention Report
What Works Clearinghouse
"Great Explorations in Math and Science[R] (GEMS[R]) Space Science" is an instructional sequence for grades 3-5 that covers fundamental concepts, including planetary sizes and distance, the Earth's shape and movement, gravity, and moon phases and eclipses. Part of the "GEMS"[R] core curriculum, "GEMS[R] Space Science" uses the solar system as the focal point for learning. The sequence utilizes models, hands-on investigations, peer-to-peer discussions, reflection, and informational student readings. Students complete four units, each lasting between four and nine sessions. Each unit builds upon knowledge from previous units and can be used independently or in conjunction with one another for an overall learning progression. Two studies reviewed by the What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) investigated the effects of ["GEMS[R] Space Science" on elementary school students. One study (Granger, Bevis, Saka, & Southerland, 2010) is a randomized controlled trial that meets WWC evidence standards without reservations. That study is summarized in this report. The other study does not meet WWC eligibility screens. Appended are: (1) Research details for Granger et al., 2010; (2) Outcome measures for each domain; (3) Findings included in the rating for the general science achievement domain; and (4) Summary of follow-up findings for the general science achievement domain. A glossary of terms is included. (Contains 4 tables, 9 endnotes and 2 additional sources.)
Descriptors: Space Sciences, Astronomy, Elementary School Science, Science Instruction, Elementary School Students, Grade 4, Grade 5, Science Achievement, Instructional Effectiveness, Educational Research
What Works Clearinghouse. 550 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024; e-mail: contact.WWC@ed.gov; Web site: https://whatworks.ed.gov/
Publication Type: Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: Elementary Education; Grade 4; Grade 5
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: What Works Clearinghouse (ED)
Identifiers - Location: Florida
IES Funded: Yes
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
IES Publication: http://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/interventionreport.aspx?sid=612