The 1982 Search for Excellence in Science Education project has identified 10 science programs as exemplars in the teaching of science as inquiry. Descriptions of the programs and the criteria used in their selection are presented. Chapter 1 reviews four goal clusters (developed during Project Synthesis) related to the desired state in science as inquiry. These goal clusters, which focus on personal needs, societal issues, fundamental knowledge, and careers, were used as the criteria for defining excellence in these programs. Chapters 2 to 11 provide descriptions of the exemplary programs. The descriptions include: (1) information about the setting of the program (community location, size, specific features); (2) nature of the program (grade, level, class sizes, curriculum outline, learning activities, evaluation techniques); (3) origin of the program; and (4) what factors contribute to the program's success and what is needed to keep it going. Chapter 12 presents some generalizations and recommendations, indicating that these programs involve several years of development, are still evolving, do not place textbooks in a central position, have close ties with post-secondary education, and involve a locally developed curriculum. In addition, the teacher is the critical factor in designing and creating an environment conducive to inquiry. (JN)