Science 101: What Do We Mean by Structure and Function in Science?

Journal Article | February 2015

This column provides background science information for elementary teachers. This month’s issue explores the meaning of structure and function.

Biomimicry: The "Natural" Intersection of Biology and Engineering

Journal Article | February 2015

Combine standards from engineering and biology while designing technology inspired by nature.

Bringing Historical Scientific Arguments Back to Life: The Case of Continental Drift

Journal Article | February 2015

Reexamine the scientific debates that surrounded the birth of the theory of plate tectonics.

Why Theories Do Not Turn Into Laws

Journal Article | February 2015

Explore what scientists mean when they talk about laws and theories, with the help of a cube and cards.

For the Love of Infographics

Journal Article | February 2015

Use a visual approach to identify an organism's structural and behavioral adaptations and explain how they increase its chances of survival.

Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K–12

Journal Article | February 2015

Books published in 2014 and selected by the National Science Teachers Association and the Children's Book Council.

The Surprising Patterns of Health and Disease

Journal Article | February 2015

Learn how connecting seemingly unrelated patterns can lead to unexpected scientific discoveries.

Editor's Roundtable: Crosscutting Concepts: The Ties That Bind

Journal Article | February 2015

Science Scope’s editor shares thoughts regarding the current issue.

Guest Editorial: Interdisciplinary Science: A Fresh Approach From the Past

Journal Article | February 2015

An opinion piece about integrated learning.

Everyday Engineering: Budding Sound Engineers: Listening to Speakers and Earbuds

Journal Article | February 2015

In this 5E learning-cycle lesson, students construct a simple speaker consisting of a coil of wire, a magnet, and a disposable cup for a diaphragm that is connected to an MP3 player. Students then evaluate competing…

Tried and True: Let's Play That Again! Engaging Students in Ecology by Using Instructional Games

Journal Article | February 2015

Teachers can harness the power of play as an instructional strategy in their classrooms. This article describes two ecological games that can be used in an outdoor education context or in a classroom.

Teacher's Toolkit: The Argumentation and Evaluation Guide: Encouraging NGSS-Based Critical Thinking

Journal Article | February 2015

In this article the authors focus on how you can use a new tool—argumentation and evaluation guide—to enhance argumentation in the classroom, evaluate a claim made by others, and make and explain claims based on…

Scope on the Skies: A Year in Time

Journal Article | February 2015

This column focuses on astronomy throughout the year. This month’s issue discusses the history of the development of various calendars.

Scope on Safety: Reacting Safely

Journal Article | February 2015

This column shares safety information for your classroom. This month’s issue covers the safety of hazardous chemicals.

Making Molecular Movies

Journal Article | March 2015

An alternative approach to engaging the reluctant writer.