Currently molecular structure is taught in general chemistry using three theories, this being based more on historical development rather than logical pedagogy. Electronegativity is taught with a confusing mixture of definitions that do not correspond to modern practice. Valence bond theory and VSEPR are used together in a way that often confuses…

Presents a study investigating the relationship between teachers' beliefs on the goals of contemporary science education and their teaching practices. (Contains 33 references.) (YDS)

Discusses schools' relevance in developing environmental awareness in young children. Explains that the primary-level national curriculum and the Mexican educational system are working toward an environmental policy. (Author/MM)

Analyzes the role of science curriculum materials in educational reform concluding that materials can and should play a vital role. Concludes also that the use of new curriculum materials must be accompanied by transformative professional development in a supportive school and community environment. (Author/MM)

Discusses the importance of inquiry and discovery in science and mathematics education. Presents three science problems for students to develop their own solutions. Concludes that curriculum materials must engage and support teachers in the process of integrating mathematics and science. (ASK)

Attempts to solve the problem of hidden structure in school chemistry. Argues that normal chemistry education is isolated from common sense, everyday life and society, the history and philosophy of science, technology, school physics, and chemical research. (Author/CCM)

Describes a program at one middle school where scientists and engineers teach the science lesson one day a week over a six-week period in place of the regular science lesson, culminating in a field trip to the workplace of the scientist/engineer. Discusses lessons learned by scientists, teachers, and students. Notes contributions to the growth of…

Shares experiences of designing interdisciplinary curriculum, making the math-science connection, using curriculum links to meet diverse needs of students, creating the learning environment-classroom management, creating the learning environment-material development, monitoring student understanding, and stimulating optimum growth. (ASK)

Presents an interview with Senta Raizen, who brings her vast experience as a researcher and director of the National Center for Improving Science Education (NCISE) to a discussion of science education reform. (ASK)

Focuses principally on the high school mathematics curriculum. Observes that it is, for most students, lifeless and ineffective. Proposes that the curriculum be implemented as a sequence of good examples designed to expose not content so much as method. (Author/MM)

Takes the position that introducing the history and philosophy of science into school science curricula is a necessary, though not sufficient, part of any school effort to promote science literacy. Reports on the progress of two such initiatives, namely The Project Physics Course and Project 2061. (MM)

Reports on the realization that science is boring to large numbers of students. Focuses on work with making science more interesting. (DDR)

Describes the results of a curriculum-aligned assessment comprising selected items from the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMMS). The assessment was administered to fifth grade students involved in a local systemic change project to address questions such as, How does the performance of students involved in the project compare…

Investigates whether the junior high school textbook 1 meets the requirements of a standards textbook that identifies with 12 criteria set by the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN). Includes the criteria of coverage of topics in the syllabus, currency suitability of language, and coherency. (Contains 18 references.) (Author/YDS)

Explains how a balloon activity can be used to identify certain principles of flight. Describes where balloons fit in the science curriculum. (YDS)