Provides: (1) background information on how the solar system began and the objects that make up the solar system; (2) seven activities; and (3) ready-to-copy student materials. Activities include objective(s), recommended age level(s), subject area(s), list of materials needed, and procedures. (JN)

Offers suggestions for activities that demonstrate the principles of osmosis. Explains how decalcified chicken eggs can be used to give students practice with measurement, experimental procedures, and science principles. (ML)

Offers an approach for teaching a unit on classification that combines various software programs with traditional science teaching methods. Provides procedural directives for the activities and explains the objectives of each exercise. (ML)

In 1977, 180 second- and third-year education students completed a questionnaire in which they were asked to recall their science experience in elementary school. Results from this study are compared to those obtained in 1984 from 159 students of approximately the same age and at the same level of education. (JN)

Describes the development and rationale of a hands-on, process-oriented elementary science curriculum that emphasizes decision making, problem solving, current issues, and the human element in science and technology. (JHZ)

The National Diffusion Network (NDN) is a federal program that disseminates information about exemplary educational programs and helps other schools replicate them. Each state has an NDN facilitator who can help interested teachers develop and/or find appropriate curricula. Information on applying to and participating in the NDN is given. (DH)

Results from studies dealing with students' views toward science teachers/classes, usefulness of science study, and what it is like to be a scientist are reviewed and analyzed. Studies include National Assessment of Educational Progress data and data from an Iowa follow-up study and a study of a large school district. (JN)

The meanings of eight science terms (volume, organism, motion, energy, molecule, cell, enzyme, fossil) were studied by 9-, 13-, and 17-year-olds. Results indicate that the schools were ineffective in increasing numbers of students who mastered these terms between seventh and eleventh grade. Reasons for this finding are discussed. (Author/JN)

Describes the new primary and secondary-level science curriculum in Sierra Leone as well as new teacher roles and instructional approaches. Indicates that curricular changes in this country should address needs related to job opportunities, the environment, and citizenship. Results of 1972-80 secondary-level biology, chemistry, and physics…

Investigated what effects two instructional strategies (related to student use of manipulative materials) would have on second-grade students' (N=96) development of logical structures. Also examined the effects of sex on logical development. Results indicate that supplying manipulative materials alone is not adequate in promoting development of…

Lists 12 science-oriented computer programs (indicating program name, source, RAM needed, compatible computers, and current cost). Also considers the use of these programs in educational and home settings. (JN)

Building specifications for birdhouses (nesting boxes) are given for 11 species (chickadee, titmouse, nuthatch, Carolina wren, house wren, downy woodpecker, hairy woodpecker, flicker, bluebird, screech owl, and wood duck) including length, width, depth, entrance diameter, and height above the ground. Pointers for construction, materials, and…

Describes the types, functions, and common locations of galls, providing suggestions for their collection and study. Also contains illustrations of several types of galls and identifies the insects that are associated with them. (ML)

A classical discrepant event involving surface area and volume can be illustrated by using paper, tape, and sand to make silos (one short, one tall) from two identical pieces of paper. Explanations of the activity and applications to packaging materials (cereal boxes) are presented. (DH)

Currently, there is much research work investigating the teaching and learning of plant nutrition in several different countries. This article briefly summarizes the findings of some of this work, including the work undertaken by the Children's Learning in Science Project. (Author)