Researchers and practitioners alike express concerns about the conceptual difficulties associated with the concepts of momentum and kinetic energy currently taught in school physics. This article presents an in-depth analysis of the treatment given to them in 44 published textbooks written for UK secondary school certificate courses. This is set…

Discusses how the constructivist approach to learning can aid in helping students to experience more meaningful learning. Discusses cooperative group learning and the concept of constructivism; constructivist teaching formats; and whether the constructivist approach works. (ZWH)

Provides a brief overview of the constructivist learning model and characterizes the science classroom where the constructivist model can best be used. (ZWH)

Describes an investigation for physical science and chemistry students that engages students both physically and mentally. (ZWH)

This article describes the introduction of a sequence of lessons, based on a constructivist view of learning, into unit of work. Reactions to this change are discussed, together with some of the issues raised by constructivist teaching and learning. (Author/MKR)

Describes the Write Now approach that allows teachers to transform the first few minutes of class into a powerful learning experience by helping students reflect on the previous day's lessons and encouraging them to construct their own knowledge of the concepts being studied. Discusses Quasar questions, reviewing responses, constructing…

Describes an instructor's experience using the constructivist approach to teach college science (ZWH)

This monograph addresses the basic ideas of constructivism in the context of science teaching. Instructional practices for applying constructivist-based teaching principles explained in this document include using open-ended, hands-on activities; cooperative learning; various questioning strategies; student journals; and a curriculum based on the…

Describes a constructivist approach to teaching a second-grade science unit focusing on the moon, using student observations and data collection. Lays the foundation for the evolving development of conceptual understandings of earth, moon, and sun interrelationships in other grades throughout the school. (nine references) (JRH)

Modifies a laboratory activity to ensure that consistencies exist between the laboratory objectives and the teacher's instructional goals (the constructivist learning theory). The changes are included in the article as well as a rationale for each change. (ZWH)

Since assessment is intimately linked with instruction, it too is changing under the wave of numerous efforts at reforming mathematics and science education. From this new perspective, the learner actively constructs personal meaning from information and experiences by linking new information with his or her pre-existing knowledge and…

Describes the use of constructivism in teaching human anatomy. Provides directions for constructing arm-hand and leg-foot models that include extensor and flexor muscles and that are easily and cheaply constructed. Lists resources that provide ideas for using such models depending upon the curriculum implemented in a school or the course that is…

Helping students to make essential connections of science content is often difficult, yet necessary to ensure a true understanding of science. A teacher offers insights on how pyruvic acid can be used to help students make connections in chemistry and biology. (ZWH)

Discusses the need for college faculty and staff to become involved in precollege science education reform. Provides some of the implications that reforms may have on college science, especially in introductory courses. (ZWH)

Presents suggestions for the implementation of constructivist teaching-learning strategies. Discusses the following topics: teacher's role; classroom management; planning; pedagogic skills, including negotiation and group work; and assessment. (JRH)