In this article, the authors' kindergarteners and a fellow first-grade class turned their hallway into a forest! Not just any mural, this culmination of a month-long project was based on observing, questioning, taking field trips, conducting library research (including the internet) and asking experts. The students developed skills in forming…

Lists the awardees from the Craftsman/NSTA Young Inventors Awards Program and relates the stories behind the inventions. (MM)

One author shares the unique opportunity to be immersed in the science of "sound at work" through participation in NOAA's (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Teacher at Sea Program. A third- through fifth-grade learning outcome within the Nature of Science section of the "Next Generation Science Standards"…

Using many different media, students can turn leaves into images which can be used for study, bulletin boards, collections, and identification. The simple techniques described include pastel printing, smoke prints, ink or tempura printing, bleach printing on t-shirts, ditto machine printing using carbon paper, and making cutouts. (DH)

Discusses planning necessary for a successful elementary school science fair. Includes a science fair checklist. (JN)

To capture students' excitement and engage their interest in rocketships and visiting planets in the solar system, the author designed lessons that give students the opportunity to experience the joys and challenges of developing straw rockets, and then observing which design can travel the longest distance. The lessons are appropriate for…

In the activity described, elementary school children each adopt a tree and make monthly observations which are recorded in their log books. (JR)

Presents comments on problems voiced by teachers about conducting science fairs with middle school children, also cites some advantages of science fairs. A list of simple experiments is offered that are considered within the interests and intellectual range of middle school children. (Author/EB)

Success of the Murch Elementary School (Washington, DC) science fair is due to many factors which are applicable to other schools. Suggestions, ideas, and hints are given in this description of the school's program. Projects with an electrocardiogram, water weeds, and preserving ice are also discussed. (DH)

Building bankhides (areas for trout to rest, hide from predators, and wait for their next meal) is one project of the Bettendorf (Iowa) Community School District's K-12 field science programs. Discusses sixth graders involvement and related activities in the bankhide project. (JN)

Describes a long-term project, Moonwatch, which introduces the relationships between the earth, sun, and moon, highlighting the broad conceptual themes of patterns and change. (MKR)

Presents a science activity that can be organized and made functional in a willing community to include an array of unique environmentally- oriented occupations and an abundance of natural resources. The activity will improve academic performance and attitudes of young students. (EB)

Science is an often ignored subject in the elementary grades. This article lists and briefly discusses ten suggestions for strengthening and enriching an elementary science curriculum. Among the ways given are science fairs, museums, outdoor learning centers, filmstrips clinics, and school weather stations. (MA)

Assesses the benefits of a minizoo project which incorporates an animal lending program. Describes the instructional opportunities made available to teachers and students through this offering. Also explains the functions and activities of an animal club for children. (ML)