This issue of Exploratorium Magazine focuses on the topic robotics. It explains how to make a vibrating robotic bug and features articles on robots. Contents include: (1) "Where Robot Mice and Robot Men Run Round in Robot Towns" (Ray Bradbury); (2) "Robots at Work" (Jake Widman); (3) "Make a Vibrating Robotic Bug" (Modesto Tamez); (4) "The Robot…

This booklet provides an understanding of science education for young children in terms of both a theoretical basis for planning and a selection of practical experiences. The theoretical and practical sections are organized separately, and readers are advised that an understanding of the theoretical approach is essential prior to implementing the…

Suggested are methods for the collection of field evidence about processes that form plutonic and metamorphic rock. Description and discussion of these types of rocks are provided. The planning and execution of a successful field trip is discussed. Advanced field projects are also discussed. Included are five appendices, references, and a…

Presented is the study of sequences of rock layers as the basis for historical geology. Also considered is the influence of rock layers on the appearance of the landscape. Specific relevant laws of geology are presented. Preparation for a field trip is discussed. An example field trip is discussed and field techniques and projects are reviewed.…

The causes for many of the colors exhibited by minerals are presented to students. Several theories of modern physics are introduced. The nature of light, the manner in which light interacts with matter, atomic theory, and crystal structure are all discussed in relation to the origin of color in minerals. Included are color pictures of many…

This guide provides the interested student with a wide range of astronomical investigations that require a minimum of equipment. Activities focus on analysis and understanding of numerous celestial events which are observable every day. The guide is intended to lead the amateur through initial steps in the understanding of some of the functions of…

Discussed are meteors from an historical and astronomical viewpoint; then presented is the chemical makeup of iron meteorites, stony meteorites, and stony-iron meteorites. Age determination, moon craters, and tektites are also treated. The interested observer learns how to identify meteorites and to describe how they fall. (Author/RE)

This guide introduces the study of fossils and means through which this study may provide clues to ancient environments and geology. Presented are discussions about the origin of many types of organisms, origin of organic communities, evolution, and extinction of species. Suggestions are provided for likely collection sites, methods of collection,…

Highlighted are the effects of weathering through field investigations of the environment, both natural rocks, and the urban environment's pavements, buildings, and cemeteries. Both physical weathering and chemical weathering are discussed. Questions are presented for post-field trip discussion. References and a glossary are provided. (Author/RE)

Discussed are the importance of soil to plant and animal life, the evolution of a soil profile, and the major kinds of soil in the United States. On a suggested field trip, students examine different kinds of soil profiles; they also measure soil acidity and water-holding capacity. Suggestions for further study are provided along with references…

The study of beaches and their capacity as an interface between land, air, and water is presented. Students investigate shore phenomena to better understand the beach's history and possible future. Also discussed is the interaction between man and the beach, from weather effects to pollution. Laboratory investigations of samples collected from the…

Attention is directed to processes going on in lakes which are not apparent to the observer of their scenic beauty. Explored are the lifetime of lakes, how lakes are formed, elements of a field trip to a lake, and influence of human activities on lakes. Sample post-field trip questions, references, and a glossary of terms are also included. (RE)