Discussed is the idea that energy is the cause of change. This idea, going back to early cognitive development, means that the teaching of energy needs to confront how, thermodynamically, people can perform actions. The change in energy caused by differences is emphasized. (KR)

Applies the Lesh Translation Model to develop conceptual understanding by showing relationships between five modes of representation proposed by Lesh to learn multiplication of fractions. Presents five teaching activities based on the translation model. (MDH)

Focuses on the enhancement of chemistry students' skill in problem solving utilizing problem categorization techniques. Indicates that explicit training in categorization skills can lead to higher achievement in complex problem-solving situations but that such achievement may be limited by the lack of linkages between students' conceptual…

Conceptions of 50 third graders (aged 8-9 years) in Italy about shopkeepers' profit were examined using the Piagetian clinical procedure, with an interview followed by a comparison task that checked comprehension. Teaching children about profit had a higher impact at posttest on children who could compare correctly. (SLD)

The second in a series of three articles, some themes of an undercurrent of educational objectives that move beyond the evident content goals are outlined. The themes relate the computer software materials analyzed in Part I to the cognitive experiences that students should have in learning about subject matter. (MDH)

Contends social studies is an exciting, relevant aspect of the curriculum, but it is often presented in a mundane and dated fashion. Reviews research on instructional processes and recommends teaching generalizations based on concepts grounded in fact. (CFR)

Methods for teaching higher order thinking skills to students with special needs are considered. These include microthinking skills (e.g., classification); critical thinking skills; and major thinking operations (e.g., problem solving, decision making, and conceptualizing). Strategies for teaching individual skills and for incorporating thinking…

Asserts that metacognition is one of the most important developments in the contemporary study of learning. Proposes a theoretical analysis of a number of interrelated issues with regard to their importance for metacognition. Focuses on strategy selection in light of the impasse-based theories of problem solving. (CFR)

Discussed is the idea that students come into their lessons with already preformed notions for many basic astronomical events. Examples of students' responses during an astronomy lesson are included. Suggestions for uncovering students' alternative frameworks are presented. (KR)

This paper describes student performance and beliefs regarding fractions resulting from a five-phase approach toward developing mathematical intuition via physical materials. Interviews with students using this approach and with students using a conventional textbook approach indicated significant differences in problem-solving abilities and…

Probability theory can be developed from a theoretical or experimental probability approach. The problem, "The Gambler's Ruin," is used to study whether students are naturally sensitive to learning probability from an experimental probability approach through simulations. Results indicated that use of simulations can contribute to…

Discusses a study of the content of elementary social studies textbooks. Reports that geographic and economic concepts predominated in textbooks written for first through fourth graders although publishers differed over which concepts were most important. Concludes that the books offer little opportunity to review and expand upon concepts over…

Oral language abilities in 20 boys (ages 9-13) with chronic behavior disorder were investigated, using 20 standardized language measures. Findings indicated generally poor or inconsistent language skills, with abstract concepts and linguistically complex structures particularly difficult. (Author/DB)

Investigates influences of educational set and cognitive preference of the student as independent variables on knowledge and cognitive organization outcomes in the context of other educationally significant variables. Concludes cognitive preference is an important variable contributing uniquely to achievement and cognitive organization in the…

This article describes the genesis and development of concept mapping as a tool for science education. It also offers an overview of this special issue of the "Journal of Research in Science Teaching" and comments on the current state of knowledge representation. Suggestions for further research are made. (49 references) (Author/PR)