The Greenwich Academy (Connecticut), an all-girls school, is more quickly characterized as traditional than as progressive. This article presents four examples of how the Academy has endeavored in recent years to make learning experiential for their students. These four areas are: (1) GAINS (Girls Advancing In STEM); (2) Fourth Grade Classroom…

This paper explores the pedagogy underpinning the use of laser manufacturing methods for the teaching of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) at key stage 3 design and technology. Clock making (horology) has been a popular project in design and technology (D&T) found in many schools, typically it focuses on aesthetical…

Students who have a strong urban place-identity may perceive the natural world differently from many geoscience instructors. These urban thinkers have less experience in the natural world and are more comfortable in built environments. They may have subtle differences in cognitive and spatial skill development, interest level in the natural…

It has long been understood that children's interest in science generally declines during the transition from primary to secondary school. The English government's "Every Child Matters" agenda states that pupils should "make a positive contribution" and "achieve economic wellbeing", and so there is a need to develop a…

Interest and participation in science in schools has been declining for many years and there is a genuine need to rejuvenate interest in science at the high school level. One possible solution is the completion of challenging science projects which fulfill an authentic purpose in the community. This paper discusses the results of ongoing research…

Many teachers struggle with meeting the needs of their most talented science students. How can these gifted students be challenged and learn as fast as they are able, especially in a classroom with a wide variety of abilities and interest in science? Many excellent teachers have found the answers in differentiating instruction by adding the…

Describes a camping experience and its activities created for girls entering 6th grade who wanted to learn science and explore science-related fields. Indicates that the camping experience for girls promoted positive attitudes toward science learning. (KHR)

In this article, the author describes the Space Camp at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, where deaf and hard of hearing students can pilot spaceships, conduct experiments, and dodge meteorites. Each year in the spring, students from schools all over the United States attend a one-week, hands-on learning experience in…

Explains procedures and activities involved in conducting and using a dig for teaching students about ethnobiological topics and ancient civilizations. Provides guidelines for dealing with the same lesson without taking students on a dig. (RT)

Discusses a research project of testing detergents that resulted from students' classroom observations of and questions about water pollution and suds. Outlines procedures and responsibilities necessary for conducting the experiment. A sample student data sheet is included. (RT)

Describes an activity which provides students with a concrete example of how isolines translate into daily weather maps. Outlines materials, procedures, and information needed for teaching the lesson. Includes an example of a map showing isotherms across the United States. (RT)

Describes the use of the polygenic trait of total fingerprint ridge count in the classroom as a laboratory investigation. Presents information on background of topic, fingerprint patterns which are classified into three major groups, ridge count, the inheritance model, and activities. Includes an example data sheet format for fingerprints. (RT)

The FIPSE-funded Science and Self-Determination Project was conceptualized as a response to help alleviate the critical need for Native American scientists who would be able to deal with issues and concerns both within and outside of the Native American community. Objectives of the Science and Self-Determination Project were to prepare…

Discusses the importance of implementing new approaches in science teaching which will elevate citizen concerns to science-related issues confronting society. Outlines a biology application course designed to counteract current problems in this area. (RT)

Describes an effort of a library and a school system in which an educational resource science and mathematics enrichment center was created to combat the underrepresentation of minorities in science and technology-related careers. Explains classes at the center, inservice, teacher education, informal use of the center, and additional programs. (RT)