Draws upon the distinction between fundamental and derived senses of literacy to show that conception of scientific literacy attends to the derived sense but neglects the fundamental sense. Makes suggestions as to how scientific literacy would be viewed differently if the fundamental sense of literacy were taken seriously. Explores some…

Presents hands-on science activities that help young children learn about the five senses and connect different aspects of the early childhood curriculum. (JRH)

Describes the use of light-emitting diodes (LED) instead of incandescent bulbs in experiments that generally use battery and bulbs to enable students to explore and understand fundamental electrical phenomena. Presents the following examples: Faraday's Law demonstration, conductors and insulators, and rectifying action of a diode. (JRH)

Presents a classroom guide for a simple theoretical approach to the study of certain fluids. Discusses background information, followed by experimental procedures for the preparation of two popular viscoelastic materials ("Slime" and "Silly Putty") that exhibit unusual flow properties. Also lists student discussion questions…

Describes an integrated nature-immersion program in which K-5 students meet all curriculum outcomes through investigating, monitoring, and restoring schoolground habitats and local ecosystems. (CCM)

Describes a research-based activity for high school physics students in which they build an LC circuit and find its resonant frequency of oscillation using an oscilloscope. Includes a diagram of the apparatus and an explanation of the procedures. (DDR)

Discusses the impact of biotechnology (i.e., the use of DNA profiling in the courtroom) on today's society. Presents a hands-on activity for DNA profiling simulation that actively involves students. (YDS)

Presents an inquiry-based science laboratory examining the effects of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH) on skin pigmentation in the African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis). (YDS)

Points out the importance of molecular models in biology and chemistry. Presents a laboratory activity on DNA. Uses different colored wax strips to represent "heavy" and "light" DNA, cesium chloride for identification of small density differences, and three different liquids with varying densities to model gradient…

Presents a hands-on primary science unit of activities designed to teach students concepts about bananas. Real bananas are used as students investigate and use the process skills of observation, measurement, and communication. Using bananas as a theme, science, mathematics, social studies, music, and writing are integrated into the curriculum of…

Discusses two Australian projects designed to encourage hands-on science: Family Science Project and the Education and Outreach Programmes from the National Science and Technology Center. (MKR)

Presents activities and demonstrations that enable teachers to use various types of confections as tactile experiences to spark chemistry students' interest and generate enthusiasm for learning. Presents uses of candy in teaching about atomic structure, spontaneous nuclear decay, chemical formulas, fractoluminescence, the effect of a molecular…

Recounts how a partnership between the San Francisco public schools and the University of California at San Francisco has led to the replacing of science textbooks with hands-on science materials. Highlights several important aspects of this program including dialog with the school district leadership and close working relationships between school…

Introduces a hands-on science project in which groups of students design machines. Recommends dividing the class into groups and provides a rubric for student assessment. (YDS)

Describes the Marine Discovery Center (MDC) which emphasizes conservation of the marine environment, adaptations and features of various creatures, and the discovery of marine creatures in their habitat. (CCM)