As one of the authors was warning the fifth-grade class about protecting clothes from spills in the lab, one student commented that his pants wouldn't stain because they were covered with some "nano stuff." The class tossed water on the pants and watched it bead up and roll off "like magic." The class's interest was piqued, and the questions…

In sixth grade, students understand that Earth gets visible light from the Sun, but students may also believe the Earth gets heat from the Sun. This last part is incorrect because the Sun is too far from the Earth to heat it directly. So, how does the Sun heat the Earth? When light strikes an object, it can be reflected or absorbed. Absorbed light…

Provides guidelines for simple acceleration experiments with string and attached weights as a means to stimulate the reticular activating system (RAS) of the human brain. Several methods (discrepant events, curiosity, choices, and doubt) are suggested for promoting RAS high-level thought. String drop experiments provide concrete experiences with…

A science and social studies unit developed around rosin is described. Students develop an understanding of the processing of raw material from a plant source into a commercial product and how to protect wood from weathering by preparing, testing, and evaluating varnish and shellac for their wood protective qualities. (Author/DS)

Presents three science activities targeted to help urban students learn about nature: (1) observing coloration patterns of pigeons; (2) measuring local rainfall and comparing it to other areas; and (3) conducting a biodiversity study by observing a patch of lawn. (YDS)

Urges the use of the immediate environment of the school to serve as a focus and a medium to help plan activities and experiments in the different subject areas of science, and in the area of environment. (GA)

An experiment on the heat conductivity of different materials are described. Applications for energy education in the elementary classroom are implied. (MDR)

Presents a diversity of concrete experiences that can be used with eggs for young elementary age students. Includes procedures and material list for several activities that are hands-on and interdisciplinary in nature. (ML)

Provides examples of science experiments and demonstrations that are centered on the theme of eggs. Activity explanations include: (1) the floating egg; (2) egg-in-the-bottle; (3) walking on eggs; and (4) egg balancing. (ML)

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)

Describes four activities for the elementary science classroom to help students develop their powers of description, explanation, and prediction. Topics of the activities are spool "gears," crystal comparisons, yeast magic, and clay cargo carriers. (DS)

An experiment is described relating activities with pendulums to the process skill of controlling variables. Includes materials needed, directions, and follow-up questions for the experiments. Lists five other experiments which could be used to teach the control of variables. (DS)

Describes a paper chromatography experiment designed for fifth and sixth grade students. Utilizes common materials that need no special ordering. Background information, conclusion questions, and sample chart are included. (MA)