Discusses the important concepts involved in problem solving. Presents a chain representation of problem solving and gives an example of the application of this method. Provides a strategy for teaching controversial issues in a science classroom and gives an example of the implementation of the strategy. (CW)

Two representations useful in teaching transmission genetics are described. Details of the representations and problem solving using these instructional aids are discussed. The importance of developing representations which help remedy specific difficulties that students commonly encounter is stressed. (CW)

Provides details of a science teacher inservice model centered around the methodology of problem solving and ownership of outcomes associated with an issue or problem. Describes perceptions of the program by staff and participants. (Author/MKR)

As the nation's schools respond to calls for improved science education, educators are faced with the challenge of making what is learned in the classroom applicable to what is happening in society. This newsletter article discusses constructive and erroneous definitions of science, identifies several national reform efforts in the area of science…

Student research programs offer students the principles and concepts of science, but also the opportunity to develop skills in other curriculum areas, including reading, language, problem solving, and writing. The brochure contains sections which specifically address the educational value of such programs, science days, project components, and…

Given are instructions for teaching spreadsheet use for problem solving in mathematics. Examples of relevant problems from algebra through calculus are provided. The advantages of using computer spreadsheets in this application are stressed. (CW)

The 1982 Yearbook of the Association for the Education of Teachers in Science (AETS) is the second in a series of three AETS yearbooks in which Ralph Tyler's 1949 curriculum rationale is used to analyze science curriculum. This publication is focused on the secondary school science curriculum (the 1981 yearbook was concerned with teaching science…

Described is a series of computer tutorials developed to teach students a logical method of problem solving for chemistry. The structure, pedagogy, and problem-solving strategies of the computer software program are described. (CW)

Presented are 27 science activities for secondary school science instruction. Topic areas include microbiology, botany, biochemistry, genetics, safety, earthquakes, problem solving, electricity, heat, solutions, mechanics, quantum mechanics, flame tests, and molecular structure. (CW)

Scientific challenges are presented to motivate secondary and college students in creative thinking and scientific problem solving. Student solutions to the "Create-a-Creature" challenge are presented and six new challenges are issued. (PEB)

Students' conceptions of the concept of force are discussed. Possible problem formats and exercises are presented. The need for many formats and variations to help students' resolve their conflicting ideas about physics concepts is stressed. (CW)

Discussed are the results of a teacher training workshop on problem solving and classroom demonstrations. The materials and topics used in the workshop are listed. Suggestions for using problem solving and classroom demonstrations are provided. (CW)

Reviews a monograph which addresses children's higher-order thinking skills. Suggests the following for teaching problem solving: identify and develop content-independent and content-dependent problem-solving skills, connect developed skills through workshop-style activities to subject discipline, and help students identify and reconstruct their…

The emphasis on writing in the teaching of mathematics and science can empower teachers to reach all sectors of the pupil population. The use of ordinary language can help break the cultural barriers that have prevented minorities and women from achieving well in proportionate numbers in these fields. This volume focuses on pedagogical issues of…

This document addresses some of the factors involved in teaching critical thinking skills in the science classroom. It contains sections that deal with: (1) pair problem solving--creating a Socratic learning environment (emphasizes the role of the teacher); (2) writing to learn science (the thought-process protocol); (3) integrating science…