Advice on how to transform a practical idea into a first-class science fair project is provided. How to do scientific research, what to include in a science fair report, how to pick a topic, when to begin, writing the report, and making the display are topics of discussion. (KR)

Using the example of a ten-year-old boy working on a science project, the author discusses the question of when and how much the teacher should intervene and direct a child's independent learning activity. (SJL)

Asserts that science instruction should have students behaving as real scientists. Discusses benefits of high school science research programs for precocious youths. (PR)

Presents an insider's view of the judging process at science fairs from a former student participant who has performed as a judge at many science fairs. Discusses who the judges are, on what judges tend to focus, parental involvement, gifted students and outside help, the interview process, and the formal rules of judging. (JJK)

Two lengthy reviews are presented of a series of seven studies, sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF), on the subject of science education from 1950 to 1975. In "Science Education in the United States during the Third Quarter of the Twentieth Century", Rita Peterson provides an historical view of major events that occurred…

This paper outlines the rationale and basic design for the development of a state-based network for improving indicators of precollege science and mathematics education. The historical background for improving the indicators of the federal and state levels are described. Five elements of a conceptual framework for the network are discussed. These…

There are many ways in which science can be made culturally relevant: archeoastronomy, mathematics, geology, ethnobotany, chemistry, and art can all be taught from a perspective celebrating the accomplishments of Mexican American and American Indian science and encouraging exploration. A culturally relevant curriculum provides teachers with…

Discusses the need for curricular and instructional integration of science and mathematics. Describes some reports supporting integration and some curriculum projects that include integration. (YP)

The intention of this guide is to consider the concepts, skills, facts, and attitudes of science which are taught in school; explore how content might be chosen; argue for a reduction in curriculum content; suggest major topics for science teaching; use examples to illustrate aspects of science content; and consider some of the implications of…