The reasons people most often give for the failures of U.S. schools involve poverty, racial inequality, and a host of social problems. This paper argues that even if all these conditions were remedied, the schools would not produce many more people with the ability to think than they do today. Teachers, who are usually able to think, do not know…

Storytelling with persona dolls (dolls that are given names, family histories, and other traits by teachers) is a powerful tool for teaching classroom and social skills, giving children words for and tools to manage their feelings, developing problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills, expanding children's comfort with difference, undoing…

This paper reports on a nationwide, random telephone survey conducted with parents and teachers of children in kindergarten through fifth grade. The survey measured parents' and teachers': (1) interest in and attitudes toward science; (2) comfort level teaching and talking about science; (3) use of hands-on science activities and teaching methods;…

This book is one of four books in the Science-by-Design Series created by TERC and funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). This series presents directed instruction on how to successfully formulate and carry out product design. Students learn and apply concepts in science and technology to design and build a pair of insulated gloves, a…

This book is one of four books in the Science-by-Design Series crated by TERC and funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). It integrates history, physics, mathematics, and technology in its challenge to high school students to design and build a working catapult system. Students investigate elasticity, projectile launching, and learn about…

This document is a guide for teaching and learning concerning inquiry education. It identifies scientific inquiry in correlation with the National Science Education Standards and discusses the various functions and strategies for assessment. Contents include: (1) Inquiry in Science and in Classrooms; (2) Inquiry in the National Science Education…

A strategy game is presented that teachers (1) logical reasoning; (2) how to formulate a clear verbal argument that explains your reasoning; (3) basic mathematical skills and (4) computational skills. The game is adaptable for many levels of instruction. (JP)

Suggests the technique of brainstorming, in which a group generates spontaneous thoughts regarding how something might be used or how a problem might be solved, as a valuable way to help elementary school children learn science. (JR)

Examines research in social studies education in regard to inquiry, focusing on the question Will inquiry strategies work for the disadvantaged?'' (Author/JM)