The enthusiasm for science displayed by students in early elementary grades is unparalleled. If not nurtured in elementary school, the spark for learning science diminishes. Unfortunately, the amount of time spent on science in Grades 1-4 has steadily declined since the passage of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. In 2012, the National…

This rationale for teaching elementary-level science using a hands-on approach emphasizes the importance of students learning the process by which an outcome arises rather than just remembering the outcome. The article encourages use of everyday objects rather than fancy scientific apparatus and offers suggestions for helping students undertake…

Science teaching practices at the Long Island School for the Gifted emphasize hands-on experiments where children do the work and the teacher assists learning. This approach bypasses the reading/writing barrier that prevents some children from learning science. Many science experiments are described, including a first-grade lesson on using…

This book is provided as a helpful tool in ensuring a successful and satisfying elementary school science fair. The book clarifies the roles of teachers, parents, and students and provides information about types of projects, practical tips, and possible topics for research. Included are short bibliographies, sample forms (which are teacher…

The National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) has assembled this collection of reprints to assist teachers in organizing a science fair, working with students and establishing equitable judging procedures. The NSTA position statement on science fairs is included. The 24 reprints in this volume are geared toward elementary and middle school…

This book consists of science activities for 11- to 16-year-old children who have physical disabilities. Part 1 presents information for teachers, parents, curriculum planners, and others who are interested in incorporating some science into the curriculum of the handicapped child. It outlines reasons for doing science, gives a suggested concept…

This book addresses some of the methods by which science can be made accessible to children, both in school and non-school settings. It contains information on effective science education for elementary school age children, and includes a catalog of books and other materials. Topics discussed in the book include: (1) planning; (2) approaches to…

This document provides a series of learning activities for parents to conduct with their second-graders to reinforce school lessons. Nine activities are provided for each month of the year (organized September to August). The document also offers a summary of normal development for children ages 5 to 10 years and a bibliography of authors, poems,…

This document contains a series of learning materials for 3rd and 4th graders and their families. The materials are designed to augment classroom learning. Included are worksheets, games, and other skill building activities for writing, reading, math, citizenship, and science. These activities are meant to help children prepare for proficiency…