National Academies Press: OpenBook

Resources for Teaching Middle School Science (1998)

Chapter: 11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations

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Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

CHAPTER 11
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS AND U.S. GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATIONS

11.1 Amateur Astronomers Association

,

1010 Park Ave.,

New York, NY 10028

(212) 535-2922

http://www.aaa.org

Association of 500 career and amateur astronomers. Programs/services: Classes; lectures; constellation study; outdoor observing; telescope making; trips to observatories; speakers panel; reference library. Publications/materials: Sky and Telescope (magazine).

11.2 American Association for the Advancement of Science

,

1200 New York Ave., N.W.,

Washington, DC 20005

(202) 326-6400

http://www.aaas.org/ehr

http://www.aaas.org/project2061

http://www.kineticcity.com

U.S. science organization that embraces all the sciences, with membership of 140,000 individuals and nearly 300 science societies and organizations. Programs/services:

  • Extensive programs and materials produced by the association's Directorate for Education and Human Resources include the following: Annual Forum for School Science; Collaboration for Equity in Science; Minority Women in Science; radio programs Science Update and Kinetic City Super Crew (the latter with teacher's guide, home activities, and call-in); senior scientists to collaborate with individual teachers; database of scientists who are available to help teachers; project SLIC (Science Linkages in the Community) to train people to teach science. Publications/materials: Books in many fields of science and science education, including IDEAAAS: Sourcebook for Science, Mathematics and Technology Education; Science Books & Films (review magazine); Science Books & Films' Best Books for Children 1992-95; videos focused on out-of-school programs for minorities, girls, and disabled students; Earth Explorer—comprehensive resource on environmental issues for students in grades 5-9; posters.

  • Project 2061: a long-term science education reform initiative (grades K-12), seeking science literacy for all high school graduates. Publications/materials: Science for All Americans—on science literacy; Benchmarks for Science Literacy—curriculum-design tool defining expectations for science knowledge for grades 2, 5, 8, and 12; Resources for Science Literacy: Professional Development; other books and computer-based materials on curriculum design, exemplary resources, and research.

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

Educators participating in a hands-on workshop

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

ABOUT THE ANNOTATIONS IN CHAPTER 11

General information about chapter 11, "Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations, is contained in the "Part 4 Overview," on pages 306-309.

The annotations in this chapter are arranged alphabetically by organization names. The annotations provide addresses, telephone and fax numbers, and Web site addresses, where available. The name and address of the appropriate person, such as an executive director, is provided for any organization that does not have a fixed address.

11.3 American Association of Physics Teachers

,

American Center for Physics,

One Physics Ellipse,

College Park, MD 20740

(301) 209-3300

http://www.aapt.org

Professional association of more than 11,000 college-level physicists, high school physics teachers, and others interested in the quality of physics education. Programs/services: Cooperates with American Physical Society (see 11.17) in Teacher-Scientist Alliance Institute to mobilize scientists in support of systemic reform of science education. Publications/materials: The Physics Teacher (journal).

11.4 American Astronomical Society

,

Education Office,

c/o Adler Planetarium,

1300 S. Lake Shore Dr.,

Chicago, IL 60605 (312)

294-0340

http://www.aas.org

Professional society of more than 6,000 astronomers, physicists, and other scientists in related fields. Programs/services: Teacher workshops at society meetings; Bok Prize for Astronomy, at Intel International Science and Engineering Fair. Publications/materials: A New Universe to Explore: Careers in Astronomy (brochure).

11.5 American Ceramic Society

,

735 Ceramic Pl.,

P.O. Box 6136,

Westerville, OH 43081-6136

(614) 890-4700

http://www.acers.org

Professional society of 10,000 scientists, engineers, educators, and others interested in a wide range of ceramics applications, including medicine, aerospace, fiber optics, electronics, automobiles, and the environment. Programs/services: Program linking scientists to schools nationwide to serve as mentors, to make in-school presentations, and to invite students to the workplace; through these links, the society fosters scientist-teacher collaborations and partnerships that provide teachers and students access to the society's publications and materials. Publications/materials: Science on Wheels (experiment manual); ceramic sample kit; Ceramics—Into the Future (video); Career Opportunities in Ceramics (brochure).

11.6 American Cetacean Society

,

P.O. Box 1391,

San Pedro, CA 90733

(310) 548-6279

http://www.acsonline.org

Volunteer organization of more than 2,500 scientists, educators, and lay persons interested in education about and devoted to the protection of whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Programs/services: Information hotline; volunteer opportunities for teachers; research library. Publications/materials: Gray Whale Teaching Kit; Whalewatcher (journal); newsletter; bibliography; information sheets available free of charge to children.

11.7 American Chemical Society

,

1155 16th St., N.W.,

Washington, DC 20036

(202) 872-4600;

(800) 227-5558

http://www.acs.org

http://www.chemcenter.org

Principal professional society of chemists, with 150,000 members. Publications/materials: Foundations and Challenges to Encourage Technology-based Science (FACETS)—integrated science curriculum for grades 6-8; supplemental activities; WonderScience—hands-on physical science magazine for grades 4-6; audiovisual materials; catalog of teaching resources; newsletter; posters.

11.8 American Forest Foundation

,

1111 19th St., N.W.,

Suite 780,

Washington, DC 20036

(202) 463-2462

http://www.affoundation.org

Nonprofit environmental education and forest conservation organization. Programs/services: Cosponsored with the Council for Environmental Education: Project Learning Tree (PLT)—comprehensive environmental education program for students (PreK-12) in 50 states and 6 foreign countries, focused on a broad range of environmental issues and designed to develop critical-thinking skills. Project Learning Tree is also a distribution network for PLT curriculum and other materials; workshops, with accompanying instructional materials,

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

are provided for teaching PLT. Publications/materials: PLT curriculum units and teacher's guides; computer-based and other materials distributed mostly through the PLT network; newsletter.

11.9 American Geological Institute

,

4220 King St.,

Alexandria, VA 22302-1507

(703) 379-2480

Federation of more than 25 professional, scientific, and technical associations in the earth sciences; concerned with improving earth science education in schools, colleges, and universities. Publications/materials: Text-based instructional materials; leaflet describing careers in the geosciences; dictionary of geological terms; book on planning for field study; Earth Science Content Guidelines—report, including activities, to guide the inclusion of earth science content in curriculum for grades K-12, with ideas and activities in the areas of solid earth, water, air, ice, life, and earth in space.

11.10 American Geophysical Union

,

2000 Florida Ave., N.W.,

Washington, DC 20009

(202) 462-6900;

(800) 966-AGU1

Professional society with more than 35,000 members, focused on geophysics. Programs/services: Geophysical Information For Teachers (GIFT) workshops for K-12 teachers at annual meetings; support for science Olympiads. Publications/materials: Earth in Space—topical geophysical information journal for students and teachers; annotated slide sets; career information.

11.11 American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics

,

1801 Alexander Bell Dr.,

5th Floor,

Reston, VA 20191-4344

(703) 264-7500

http://www.aiaa.org

Principal technical society for engineering and science in aviation and space, with 30,000 members. Programs/services: Volunteer efforts, usually through local sections of the institute, available to provide teacher workshops, tutor and mentor students, judge science fairs, sponsor essay contests, hold paper airplane contests, and work with teachers and students. Publications/materials: Brochures; videos; career information.

11.12 American Institute of Biological Sciences

,

1444 I St., N.W.,

Suite 200,

Washington, DC 20005

(202) 628-1500;

(800) 992-AIBS

http://www.aibs.org

Umbrella organization of professional life science societies and institutions; concerned with policy issues affecting the biological community, with biological education and research, and with interactions among biology societies and disciplines. Programs/services: Sessions on innovative teaching methods at annual meetings; database of scientists who are available to help teachers. Publications/materials: BioScience (monthly magazine); brochure on careers in biology.

11.13 American Institute of Physics

,

American Center for Physics,

One Physics Ellipse,

College Park, MD 20740-3843

(301) 209-3100

http://www.aip.org

Organization of 10 professional societies (totaling 100,000 members) and 19 affiliated societies in physics and related fields; concerned with collecting and disseminating information about physics, physics education, and the history of physics. Publications/materials: WonderScience —hands-on science activity magazine for grades 4-6; Physics Education Newsletter—electronic newsletter for teachers and administrators.

11.14 American Meteorological Society

,

1200 New York Ave., N.W.,

Suite 410,

Washington, DC 20006

(202) 466-5728

Professional scientific society of more than 11,000 members; focused on meteorology, climatology, and oceanography. Programs/services: Two national projects—Project ATMOSPHERE, on meteorology and climatology, and the Maury Project, on oceanography—to train teachers (grades K-12), through 2-week institutes for master teachers, and monitoring of subsequent workshops nationwide in which the master teachers train other teachers. Available through a third major initiative, the DataStreme Project—distance learning course emphasizing the study of current weather, with data delivered via the Internet [http://atm.geo.nsf.gov/devo]. Publications/materials: Teacher's guides; Data-Streme study guides; materials; hands-on activities solely for use in the projects; audiovisual and computer-based materials; newsletter; career publications.

11.15 American Nature Study Society

,

c/o Pocono Environmental Education Center,

R.R. 2,

Box 1010,

Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328

(717) 828-2319

Society of about 850 amateur and professional naturalists, conservationists, and teachers; focused on nature and environmental education. Programs/services: Workshops at

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

society meetings. Publications/materials: Nature Study—journal with in-depth articles, teaching tips, and book reviews; newsletter.

11.16

American Nuclear Society

,

555 N. Kensington Ave.,

La Grange Park, IL 60526

(708) 579-8230

http://www.ans.org

International scientific and educational organization composed of physicists, chemists, engineers, educators, and other professionals involved in nuclear science or engineering. Programs/services: Multifaceted Public Education Program (PEP); PEP Educational Outreach from local sections of the society, providing scientist collaborations, educator workshops, speaker resources, information hotlines; science competitions. Publications/materials: Curriculum units with hands-on materials; posters; career publications; newsletter.

11.17

American Physical Society

,

American Center for Physics,

One Physics Ellipse,

College Park, MD 20740

(301) 209-3200

http://aps.org/educ

Principal professional society for physicists and physics students, with more than 40,000 members; focused primarily on physics and also on physics education. Programs/services: Teacher-Scientist Alliance Institute—national cooperative effort operated with the American Association of Physics Teachers (see 11.3) to mobilize scientists in support of efforts at systemic reform of science education.

11.18

American Physiological Society

,

9650 Rockville Pike,

Bethesda, MD 20814-3991

(301) 530-7132

http://www.faseb.org/aps

Professional society of about 7,000 scientists; fosters scientific research on how the body functions. Programs/services: Database of scientists who are available to help teachers; summer research program for middle and high school teachers; on-line information service on educational materials, programs, and activities. Publications/materials: Curriculum units with hands-on, inquiry-based materials; resource sheets (e.g., list of resources, criteria for gender and race equity, and issues in animal research); audiovisual and computer-based materials; career information.

11.19

American Plastics Council

,

1801 K St., N.W.,

Suite 701 L,

Washington, DC 20006

(202) 371-5339;

(800) 2-HELP-90

http://www.plasticsresource.com

National trade association representing the U.S. plastics industry on resource conservation issues. Programs/services: Workshops at National Science Teachers Association conventions and other conferences. Publications/materials: Hands On Plastics: A Scientific Investigation Kit—includes background information, recycled plastic resin samples, and lesson plans to teach chemical structures, identification codes, and recycling; video on plastics in everyday living.

11.20

The American Society for Cell Biology

,

9650 Rockville Pike,

Bethesda, MD 20814

(301) 530-7153

http://www.ascb.org/ascb

Society of more than 8,000 scientists in cell biology and allied fields. Programs/services: Cell biology symposium for teachers at each annual meeting of the National Association of Biology Teachers; database of scientists who are available to help teachers; letter-answering service for students; speakers.

11.21

American Society for Microbiology

,

1325 Massachusetts Ave., N.W.,

Washington, DC 20005-4171

(202) 942-9283

http://www.asmusa.org/edusrc/edu1.htm

Oldest biological science society in the world, with 40,000 members. Programs/services: Scientist-Educator Network—consisting of scientists who are available to provide assistance as presenters, resource people (for advice and classroom visits), advisers to teachers on curriculum and projects, providers of laboratory tours, judges at science fairs, and, sometimes, mentors to students (to advise on projects and to be shadowed during the workday); database of members of this network is available to science teachers. Publications/materials: "How-to" manual for scientists involved in outreach efforts at schools; instructional materials for teachers; career information, including posters and booklet.

11.22

American Society of Plant Physiologists

,

15501 Monona Dr.,

Rockville, MD 20855-2768

(301) 251-0560

http://aspp.org

International society of more than 5,000 plant-science researchers, professors, teachers, and students. Programs/services: Encourages teacher-scientist partnerships and scientist collaborations with individual teachers; develops partnerships with school systems and science outreach programs; supports the creation and development of teaching

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

tools for plant science. Publications/materials: Career information; Investigating Plants: Hands-on, Low-Cost Laboratory Exercises in Plant Sciences, primarily for middle schools (available through National Association of Biology Teachers—see 11.69); videotape for scientists on conducting plant science labs for education outreach; brochure/teaching aid on functions and uses of plants; Plant Physiology and The PLANT Cell (journals).

11.23

American Solar Energy Society

,

2400 Central Ave.,

Suite G-1,

Boulder, CO 80301

(303) 443-3130

http://www.ases.org/solar

Academic society of more than 4,000 scientists, researchers, solar professionals, architects, and engineers, with a focus on increasing public awareness of the environmental and economic benefits of solar energy. Publications/materials: Solar Today—magazine providing background information on solar energy technologies and real-world applications; Science Projects in Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency—workbook for grades K-12.

11.24

American Water Works Association

,

6666 W. Quincy Ave.,

Denver, CO 80235

(303) 347-6140;

(800) 926-7337

http://www.awwa.org

International scientific and educational society for water supply professionals, with more than 54,000 members, including utilities employees, water treatment operators, researchers, manufacturers, educators, and university students; dedicated to providing safe drinking water. Programs/services: Public education programs on improving the quality of drinking water. Publications/materials: The Story of Drinking Water (curriculum unit); How to Create a Successful Science Fair (teacher's guide); activity books; audiovisual and computer-based materials; book covers; catalog of materials.

11.25

American Zoo and Aquarium Association

,

7970-D Old Georgetown Rd.,

Bethesda, MD 20814

(301) 907-7777

http://www.aza.org

Association of more than 180 zoos, zoological parks, and aquariums, supporting membership excellence in conservation, education, science, and recreation. Programs/services: Suitcase for Survival—national program that provides suitcases filled with confiscated wildlife products and accompanied by educational materials to educate youth about protected wildlife and how illegal trade threatens the extinction of certain species. Program cosponsors: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, World Wildlife Fund, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA); program coordinator: AZA. Teacher-training workshops held at selected zoological parks and aquariums nationwide; complete list of zoos and aquariums that disseminate Suitcase for Survival available from AZA. Publications/materials: Brochure on careers at zoos and aquariums.

11.26

The Annenberg/CPB Math and Science Project

,

901 E St., N.W.,

Washington, DC 20004-2037

(202) 879-9654

http://www.learner.org

Project funded by the Annenberg Foundation as a project of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), focused on improving math and science education. Programs/services: Support provided for media and communications projects that help educators, administrators, and policymakers understand, appreciate, and implement mathematics and science education reform in the classroom; interactive TV and Web service. Publications/materials: Video professional development packages and a free resource database for teachers; The Guide to Math and Science Reform—interactive database; SAMI (Science and Math Initiatives)—database of Internet teaching resources; catalog of multimedia and print resources.

11.27

Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)

,

1250 N. Pitt St.,

Alexandria, VA 22314-1403

(703) 549-9110

http://www.ascd.org

Nonprofit educational association with more than 190,000 members. Programs/services: Dissemination of information on educational research and practice, and activities addressing teaching and learning in all fields; sessions at annual conference; Professional Development Institutes of 1 to 3 days in major U.S. cities; sponsorship of networks (usually with newsletters) that meet at annual conferences. Publications/materials: ASCD Curriculum Handbook; Brown's Directories of Instructional Programs (annual guide to commercial materials); Only the Best (annual guide to highest-rated computer-based materials); Curriculum Materials Directory (annual guide to noncommercial curriculum materials); Educational Leadership (journal); ASCD books; audio-/videotapes; newsletters.

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

11.28

Association for the Education of Teachers in Science

,

University of West Florida,

11000 University Pkwy.,

Pensacola, FL 32514-5753

(904) 474-2860

http://science.coe.uwf.edu/aets/aets.html

Educational association with 850 members, focused on the professional development of science teachers. Programs/services: Sessions at association meetings; workshops. Publications/materials: Journal of Science Teacher Education; a section of Science Education; yearbooks; newsletter.

11.29

Association for the Promotion and Advancement of Science Education

,

1111 Homer St.,

Suite 200,

Vancouver,

British Columbia,

Canada V6B 2Y1 (604) 687-8712

http://www.apase.bc.ca

Nonprofit organization devoted to increasing awareness, understanding, appreciation, and teaching of science and technology. Programs/services: Speakers at career days; scientist-mentors for students; teacher-scientist partnerships; database of scientists available for helping teachers; workshops at association meetings. Publications/materials: Curriculum units with hands-on materials; audiovisual and computer-based materials; interactive science resources for children, teachers, and parents on Web site; PRISM—newsletter to help adults guide and instruct children in learning about science and technology.

11.30

Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC)

,

1025 Vermont Ave., N.W.,

Suite 500,

Washington, DC 20005-3516

(202) 783-7200

http://www.astc.org/astc

Worldwide organization of science centers and museums, planetariums, space theaters, nature centers, aquariums, zoos, natural history museums, children's museums, and other facilities, with more than 400 members in the United States and Canada. Programs/services: Created and operates YouthALIVE!—a program for underserved adolescents (grades 5-12) delivered by 52 museums that are members of ASTC or the Association of Youth Museums (see 11.31). Offered through YouthALIVE! (for students ages 10-17): developmentally appropriate service-learning experiences and hands-on enrichment activities with structured opportunities, such as clubs, camps, classes, workshops, and field trips, to heighten interest and involvement in the physical and life sciences. Individual programs designed by museums, often working with community-based organizations, and seeking minimum involvement of 120 hours per year for 2 or 3 years for each student. Technical assistance and professional development provided by ASTC for museum staff members. Publications/materials: Current list of museums disseminating YouthALIVE! program; newsletter, directory of programs, and "how-to" manual for youth programs; The ASTC/CIMUSET Directory of member institutions (CIMUSET is the International Committee of Science and Technology Museums, of the International Council of Museums); publications catalog.

11.31

Association of Youth Museums

,

1775 K St., N.W.,

Suite 595,

Washington, DC 20006

(202) 466-4144

Professional service organization serving more than 360 member museums and professionals worldwide. Programs/services: Provides for interaction, information and professional development, and collaboration among youth museums and traditional museums with a special interest in children and family audiences; provides information on children's museums with a focus on interdisciplinary education.

11.32

Astronomical Society of the Pacific

,

390 Ashton Ave.,

San Francisco, CA 94112

(415) 337-1100

http://www.aspsky.org

A 108-year-old scientific and educational society with members from 50 states and more than 60 countries, with the goal of sharing the excitement of astronomy with teachers, students, and the public. Programs/services: Project ASTRO—program linking teachers and students in grades 4-9 with amateur and professional astronomers; summer workshops on teaching astronomy in grades 3-12; astronomy information hotline. Publications/materials: Instructional materials; information packets; The Universe at Your Fingertips (resource guide for teachers); audiovisual and computer-based materials; posters; catalog of materials; The Universe in the Classroom (newsletter on teaching astronomy in grades 3-12).

11.33

Atlantic Center for the Environment

,

55 S. Main St.,

Ipswich, MA 01938-2396

(508) 356-0038

http://www.qlf.org

Environmental arm of the Quebec-Labrador Foundation, a nonprofit community service and education organization supporting rural communities and the environment of eastern Canada and New England. Programs/services: Teacher-training workshops and sessions; scientist-teacher collaborations; lab visits and research opportunities for students.

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

11.34

Biological Sciences Curriculum Study (BSCS)

,

5415 Mark Dabling Blvd.,

Colorado Springs, CO 80918-3842

(719) 531-5550

http://www.bscs.org

Research and development organization, focused on improvement of science education and professional development of teachers. Programs/services: Workshops and teacher-education opportunities to help teachers use BSCS programs. Publications/materials: Middle School Science & Technology (curriculum for grades 6-8).

11.35

Challenger Learning Centers

,

Challenger Center for Space Science Education,

1029 N. Royal St.,

Suite 300,

Alexandria, VA 22314

(703) 683-9740

http://www.challenger.org

Network of 30 centers in the United States and Canada, at museums and on school and university campuses, focused on space science, and using simulation, teamwork, creative problem solving, and responsible decision making. Programs/services: Space flight simulators with hands-on learning experiences and classroom-based projects for students; workshops for teachers using hands-on activities and mission simulation models, with faculty drawn largely from National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Teacher-in-Space finalists; speakers bureau. Publications/materials: Hands-on instructional units and teacher activity guides on space topics; audiovisual and computer-based materials; newsletter.

11.36

Cornell Lab of Ornithology

,

159 Sapsucker Woods Rd.,

Ithaca, NY 14850-1999

(607) 254-2440

http://www.ornith.cornell.edu

International center for the study, appreciation, and conservation of birds and an authoritative source of information about birds. Programs/services: Provides up-to-date ornithological data to scientists and communications media worldwide; developed the following "citizen-science" projects allowing participation in hands-on, inquiry-based activities:

  • Birds in Forested Landscapes Project—to determine the habitat needs of North American birds.

  • Cornell Nest Box Network—to study the biology and behavior of cavity-nesting birds.

  • Project/Classroom Feeder Watch—to help scientists track winter bird populations at feeders.

  • Project Pigeon Watch—to help scientists answer questions about pigeon biology and behavior.

Publications/materials: Research kits for all public projects; bird sound recordings on cassettes and CDs; slide collection, with copies at nominal fee; Living Bird (magazine); Birdscape (newsletter).

11.37

Council for Exceptional Children

,

1920 Association Dr.,

Reston, VA 20191-1589

(703) 620-3660;

(703) 264-9446

(TTY) http://www.cec.sped.org

Professional association for special educators, related service providers, and parents working to improve the educational success of individuals with disabilities and/or who are gifted. Programs/services: Annual convention; topical conferences; symposiums; workshops; conferences of state federations; operation of the ERIC Clearinghouse on Disabilities and Gifted Education and the National Clearinghouse for Professions in Special Education. Publications/materials: Extensive literature on special education and gifted education, including curriculum materials, with semiannual catalog; TEACHING Exceptional Children and Exceptional Children (journals); newsletter; publications of the council's various divisions; career information.

11.38

Council of State Science Supervisors

,

c/o Council President,

Colorado Department of Education,

201 E. Colfax Ave.,

Denver, CO 80203

(303) 866-6764

http://www.k12.ar.us/csss/index.htm

Organization consisting of a state-level science supervisor/specialist/consultant from each of the 50 states and other jurisdictions (e.g., the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam). Programs/services: Sessions at National Science Teachers Association conventions (regional and national); program of Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Teaching; coordination of individual members' work in creating curriculum guidelines, frameworks, assessments, and standards within their respective areas; information dissemination, primarily to members.

11.39

Ecological Society of America

,

2010 Massachusetts Ave., N.W.,

Suite 400,

Washington, DC 20036

(202) 833-8773

http://esa.sdsc.edu

Professional society of more than 7,000 educators, ecologists, and other scientists; focused on the study of plants, animals, and humans in

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

relation to their environment. Publications/materials: Ecology Education for Children: A Framework of Excellence (curriculum guidelines); Careers in Ecology (brochure); Ecosystem Services and Human Alteration of the Global Nitrogen Cycle (booklets); fact sheets; Ecology (journal).

11.40

Education Development Center

,

55 Chapel St.,

Newton, MA

02158-1060

(617) 969-7100

http://www.edc.org

International education research and development organization, with a Center for Science Education and a Center for Learning, Teaching, and Technology among its subdivisions. Programs/services: Workshops at meetings of National Science Teachers Association and other organizations; technical assistance to several school districts in implementing systemic reform, with special emphasis on urban schools. Publications/materials: Insights: An Inquiry-Based Middle School Science Curriculum (available in Spring 1998)—6 modules for grades 7 and 8 that develop science concepts in the life, earth, and physical sciences; A World in Motion II: The Design Experience—interdisciplinary middle school curriculum focusing on engineering, physics, social studies, and mathematical applications; teacher's guides; posters.

11.41

Eisenhower National Clearinghouse for Mathematics and Science

Education (ENC),

The Ohio State University,

1929 Kenny Rd.,

Columbus, OH 43210-1079

(614) 292-7784;

(800) 621-5785

http://www.enc.org

Clearinghouse for science and mathematics education information (grades K-12), financed by U.S. Department of Education. Services/materials: Comprehensive collection of curriculum resources in many formats (print, audio, multimedia, video, kits, games). ENC Resource Finder, a detailed catalog of these resources, is available at the ENC Web site ENC Online, which is accessible via World Wide Web [http://www.enc.org], modem [1-800-362-4448 or 1-614-292-9040], and Telnet [enc.org]. Products and services available in print and electronic format, and include newsletters (e.g., ENC Update), topical catalogs (e.g., ENC Focus), CD-ROMs, and a database of federal programs. Professional development programs conducted nationwide; reference services and technical support provided for ENC users [e-mail: info@enc.org]. Products free to qualified users.

11.42

Environmental Action Coalition

,

625 Broadway,

9th Floor,

New York, NY 10012

(212) 677-1601

Nonprofit organization concerned with education in the areas of household hazardous waste, recycling, waste prevention, and urban forestry. Publications/materials: Woods and Water—curriculum on protection of forests and watersheds.

11.43

EPIE Institute

,

103-3 W. Montauk Hwy.,

Hampton Bays, NY 11946

(516) 728-9100

http://www.epie.org

Consumer-oriented organization that evaluates educational products. Programs/services: LINCT (Learning and Information Network for Community Telecomputing)—program to help communities achieve universal, equitable access to electronic information and learning resources. Publications/materials: TESS (The Educational Software Selector)—database with information on more than 3,000 educational software programs ranging over all the sciences and social sciences (including citations to reviews), available on CD-ROM.

11.44

ERIC Clearinghouse for Science, Mathematics, and Environmental Education

,

The Ohio State University,

1929 Kenny Rd.,

Columbus, OH 43210-1080

(614) 292-6717;

(800) 276-0462;

800-LET-ERIC (for new users)

http://www.ericse.org

Clearinghouse and international information network, 1 of 16 in the ERIC (Educational Resources Information Center) system, which is supported by the U.S. Department of Education (see 11.119). Services/programs: Collects, catalogs, and provides access to educational materials; offers reference and referral services; produces bibliographic information; maintains extensive database of reports, curricular and instructional materials, evaluations, and information on programs, practices, and policies in science, mathematics, and environmental education; accessible and searchable on CD-ROM or over the Internet: e-mail [ericse@osu.edu]; Gopher [gopher.ericse.ohio-state.edu]; World Wide Web [http://www.ericse.org].

11.45

4-H Series Project

,

Human and Community Development,

University of California,

Davis, CA 95616-8523

(916) 752-8824

Office at the University of California, Davis, that created and operates the 4-H SERIES (Science Experiences and Resources for Informal Education Settings) Program—national program in which 9- to 12-year-olds

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

are led by trained teens in science activities in out-of-school settings, and then follow up with related community service projects. Program conducted at 4-H SERIES Regional Leadership Centers at the University of California, Davis; University of Missouri, Cooperative Extension of Lawrence County, Mount Vernon, Mo.; Cornell University, Cooperative Extension, Broome County, Binghamton, N.Y.; and Garrad County Extension Service, Lancaster, Ky.

11.46

Geological Society of America

,

3300 Penrose Pl.,

P.O. Box 9140,

Boulder, CO

80301-9140

(303) 447-2020;

(800) 472-1988

http://www.geosociety.org

Professional scientific society of geologists, with more than 15,000 members. Programs/services: Partners for Education Program (PEP)—national network with 1,500 partners committed to enhancing science education for children and fostering collaborations and partnerships between teachers and scientists; sessions for teachers at annual meeting; free PEP membership. Available through PEP: national database of scientist and educator partners (for grades K-12); e-mail geoscientist partners and subject area experts. Publications/materials: Geoscience career packets; video; newsletter.

11.47

Geothermal Education Office

,

664 Hilary Dr.,

Tiburon, CA 94920

(415) 435-4574;

(800) 866-4436

http://marin.org/npo/geo

Nonprofit educational office focused on K-12 education about geothermal energy. Programs/services: Free workshops for teachers; scientist collaborations and information from a scientist database; 24-hour 800 number for free materials; referrals for more technical information; classroom speakers; class visits to geothermal power plants; scientist mentors for students; poster and essay contests. Publications/materials: Curriculum unit (grades 4-8); curriculum guidelines and activity suggestions offered by phone; audiovisual materials; Steam Press—fact sheet about geothermal and renewable energy resources as they relate to environmental issues; brochures, booklets, bookmarks, and other free materials for students.

11.48

The GLOBE Program

,

744 Jackson Pl., N.W.,

Washington, DC 20503

(800) 858-9947

http://www.globe.gov

Worldwide network of students (grades K-12) making environmental measurements related to soil, hydrology, atmosphere, and biology, and sharing findings with one another and with the scientific community via the Internet and World Wide Web. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is lead agency in this program. Programs/services: Sessions at GLOBE Program meetings; extensive training workshops; information hotline; scientist collaborations with teachers; database of scientists available for helping teachers. Publications/materials: Curriculum units with hands-on materials; audiovisual and computer-based materials; instructional materials for teachers; Web-based magazine for students.

11.49

Great Lakes Planetarium Association (GLPA)

,

c/o D. David Batch,

Abrams Planetarium,

Michigan State University,

East Lansing, MI 48824

(517) 355-4676

http://www.pa.msu.edu/abrams/glpa.html

Regional association of professionals from planetariums (including many that are school-based) in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin; association focus is on astronomy and space science, but also includes geology, earth science, and meteorology. Programs/services: Workshops for teachers at annual conference; information about the region's planetariums and their programs. Publications/materials: Resource banks of slides; planetarium show scripts; booklets on teaching astronomy and on the use of a planetarium for astronomy education; newsletter.

11.50

Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, Science Education Department

,

60 Garden St.,

MS-71,

Cambridge, MA 02138

(617) 495-9798

http://cfa-www.harvard.edu/cfa/sed

Small department in a large astrophysical research center; focused on curriculum development, teacher enhancement, and applications of advanced technology. Services: Project SPICA—program providing teacher workshops in astronomy education (grades K-12), supported by a teacher manual with 37 activities, developed by teachers recruited nationwide; workshops at National Science Teachers Association meetings. Publications/materials: Project IMAGE: Investigative Materials About Global Environments—manual of image-based activities for use in earth science and environmental science classes (grades 7-9), with a separate teacher's guide; Project STAR: The Universe in Your Hands—astronomy-based science course (grades 8-12), available as a text with hands-on activities; Harvard-Smithsonian Case Studies in Science Education—videos, with accompanying guide materials, giving visual models of science education reform, for in-service and preservice teacher education programs; newsletter.

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

11.51

Industry Canada

,

155 Queen St.,

4th Floor,

Ottawa,

Ontario,

Canada K1A 0H5

(800) 268-6608

http://www.schoolnet.ca/math_sci

Among its activities, Industry Canada offers the following services of interest to middle school science educators. Programs/services:

  • Computers for Schools and Libraries Program—coordinates the repair and distribution of refurbished government and industry surplus computers to Canadian elementary and secondary schools and libraries.

  • SchoolNet—an extensive on-line educational resource site, with more than 1,500 student and teacher resources.

11.52

Institute for Chemical Education

,

University of Wisconsin,

Department of Chemistry,

1101 University Ave.,

Madison, WI 53706

(608) 262-3033

http://ice.chem.wisc.edu/ice

National organization centered at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, with a network of field centers and affiliates across the country devoted to helping teachers at all grade levels (kindergarten through college) revitalize science in the schools. Programs/services: Two-week workshops at various regional sites; 2-to-3-week workshops in Madison; summer fellowships; Chem Camps for students (grades 5-8). Publications/materials: Supplemental activities; instructional materials for teachers; kits and devices; newsletter.

11.53

Institute for Earth Education

,

Cedar Cove,

Greenville, WV 24945

(304) 832-6404

http://slnet.com/cip/iee

International nonprofit organization of educators; focused on environmental education. Programs/services: Earth Education interest sessions and workshops conducted by associates around the country; International Earth Education Conferences. Publications/materials: Complete educational programs developed and disseminated; Talking Leaves (journal); Earth Education Sourcebook (annual); other books and program materials.

11.54

Institute of Food Technologists

,

221 N. LaSalle St.,

Suite 300,

Chicago, IL 60601

(312) 782-8424

http://www.ift.org

Scientific educational society with 28,000 members; focused on food science and technology. Programs/services: Collaborations between teachers and professional food scientists; teacher-scientist partnerships through selected food company programs; databases of food scientists available for helping teachers. Publications/materials: Series of videotapes and support materials for grades 5-8 on the science of foods, food processing, food safety, and food nutrition; set of classroom experiments in food science; career information.

11.55

International Society for Technology in Education

,

University of Oregon,

1787 Agate St.,

Eugene, OR 97403-1923

(541) 346-4414;

(800) 336-5191 (for materials)

http://www.iste.org

Nonprofit organization with 10,000 members, focused on the improvement of education through the appropriate use of technology; serves as a clearinghouse on the use of technology in education. Programs/services: Workshops and seminars at Tel-Ed/Multimedia Conference. Publications/materials: Curriculum units; books; educational software packages; curriculum guidelines for accreditation; computer-based materials; Learning and Leading with Technology and Journal of Research on Computing in Education (journals); Update (newsletter).

11.56

International Wildlife Coalition

,

70 E. Falmouth Hwy.,

East Falmouth, MA 02536

(508) 548-8328;

(800) 548-8704

Nonprofit organization that rescues and protects wildlife and wild habitat, and operates the Whale Adoption Project. Programs/services: Whale Adoption Project—supports marine mammal research and protection. Publications/materials: Whales of the World (teacher kits); newsletter.

11.57

Izaak Walton League of America

,

IWLA Conservation Center,

707 Conservation Lane,

Gaithersburg, MD 20878-2983

(301) 548-0150;

(800) BUG-IWLA http://www.iwla.org

National conservation organization with more than 54,000 members, focused on protecting the nation's natural resources. Programs/services:

  • Sustainability Education Project—an educational effort for researching the carrying-capacity issues of human population growth, natural resource consumption, environmental impacts of technologies, and sustainability.

  • Save Our Streams Program—for stream monitoring and restoration, with workshops, an information hotline, and a database of scientists available for helping teachers.

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

Publications/materials: Hands On Save Our Streams: Science Project Guide for Students; curriculum materials; books; videotapes; youth guides; Environments for Life (newsletter for Sustainability Education Project); Outdoor America (magazine); newsletter.

11.58

JASON Project

,

JASON Foundation for Education,

395 Totten Pond Rd.,

Waltham, MA 02154

(617) 487-9995

http://www.jasonproject.org

Interactive field trip, taking half a million students on remote scientific expedition via satellite and the Internet; emphasis on wide range of earth science and environmental research topics; available at 27 Primary Interactive Network Sites (PINS), including 7 museums and 3 NASA field centers (see 11.66)—Ames, Goddard, Johnson. Programs/services: Live-broadcast programs from expeditions, with interactive features; simulation of expedition site at each PINS; participation in actual expedition by selected students and teachers; e-mail, and World Wide Web home page with expedition reports, data, and other educational electronic resources. Publications/materials: Curriculum units on expeditions available 6 months before each expedition. For further information: e-mail [info@JASON.org]; World Wide Web (at address given above).

11.59

Keystone Center

,

P.O. Box 8606,

1503 Soda Ridge Rd.,

Keystone, CO 80435-7998

(303) 468-5824;

(800) 215-5585

http://www.keystone.org

Nonprofit public policy, scientific, and educational organization, focused on the beneficial and intelligent use of science, technology, and the environment in society. Programs/services:

  • Classroom Access to Science Education—year-round residential programming for teachers and their students.

  • Key Issues Institute—national, middle-level teacher-training program using environmental issues as a means of understanding and learning science.

  • Keys to Science—summer training program for high school teachers, with emphasis on cellular and molecular biology.

  • On the Wing: Field Studies in Ornithology—collaborative field project for young adults in conjunction with the Colorado Bird Observatory.

Publications/materials: Instructional materials for teachers.

11.60

Los Alamos National Laboratory

,

Box 1663, MS P278,

Los Alamos, NM 87545

(505) 667-1919

http://www.education.lanl.gov/resources

National laboratory with an active program in science education for New Mexico teachers and students. Programs/services: Workshops for teachers; student research internships; summer programs for students; educational technology programs.

11.61

Microscopy Society of America

,

4 Barlows Landing Rd.,

No. 8,

Pocasset, MA 02559

(707) 964-9460;

(800) 538-3672

http://www.msa.microscopy.com

Organization with more than 4,000 members, serving as a center for education and information dissemination for microscopy-related knowledge. Programs/services: Project MICRO (Microscopy in Curriculum-Research Outreach)—educational outreach program for putting high-quality microscopy-based science materials and member-volunteers of the society in middle school classrooms nationwide; "Ask-a-Microscopist" service for teachers. Publications/materials: Microscopic Investigations—a Lawrence Hall of Science GEMS guide currently under development; career publications; Internet bibliography of children's books on microscopy.

11.62

Middle Atlantic Planetarium Society (MAPS)

,

c/o Laura Deines,

MAPS President,

Southworth Planetarium,

P.O. Box 9300,

Portland, ME 04104-9300

(207) 780-4249

http://www.voicenet.com/˜mcdonald/MAPS.html

Regional association of professionals from planetariums (including many that are school-based) in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia; association focus is on astronomy and space science. Programs/services: Workshops for teachers at society meetings; teacher-scientist partnerships; facilitation of loans of Starlab portable planetariums among member planetariums; information about the region's planetariums and their programs. Publications/materials: Under Roof, Dome, and Sky—collection of activities developed and used by member planetariums; newsletter.

11.63

Mineral Information Institute

,

475 17th St.,

Suite 510,

Denver, CO 80202

(303) 297-3226

Private organization supported by professional associations, private companies, and foundations; focused

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

on educating the public about the importance of mineral and energy resources in everyday life. Publications/materials: Supplementary activities; audiovisual and computer-based materials; posters.

11.64

The Museum Institute for Teaching Science

,

79 Milk St.,

Suite 210,

Boston, MA 02109-3903

(617) 695-9771

http://www.mits.org

Nonprofit organization focused on improving the teaching of science, mathematics, and technology. Programs/services: Hands-on inquirymode summer science workshops for K-8 teachers, taught by the museums of Massachusetts. Publications/materials: Science Is Elementary (topical resource magazine for K-6 teachers); newsletter.

11.65

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Central Operation of Resources for Educators

,

Lorain County Joint Vocational School,

15181 Rte. 58 S.,

Oberlin, OH 44074

(216) 774-1051, Ext. 293 and 249

http://spacelink.msfc.nasa.gov/CORE

Worldwide distribution center for NASA audiovisual educational materials. Publications/materials: Free catalog in response to request on school letterhead.

11.66

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Education Division

,

Code FE,

NASA Headquarters,

300 E St., S.W.,

Washington, DC 20546

(202) 358-1110

http://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/codef/education

The following programs and services of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) are delivered via 9 NASA field centers that serve multistate areas. These field centers are located at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, Ala.; NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, Calif.; Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.; NASA Kennedy Space Center, Kennedy Space Center, Fla.; NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.; NASA Stennis Space Center, Stennis Space Center, Miss.; NASA Lewis Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio; NASA Johnson Space Center, Houston, Tex.; and NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, Va. Two other field centers serving only their own states are the NASA Dryden Flight Research Facility, Edwards Air Force Base, Calif.; and Wallops Flight Facility, Wallops Island, Va. Programs/services:

  • The Aerospace Education Services Program consists of traveling aerospace-education units with classroom programs, teacher-enhancement workshops (1 hour to 2 weeks long) on integrating aerospace into the curriculum, and assembly programs (grades K-12).

  • The Community Involvement Program, an intensive community program emphasizing aerospace, seeks to involve service clubs, government officials, and the private sector, in addition to schools: offers in-service workshops (1 week to 1 month long), assemblies, exhibits, public events.

  • NASA Educational Workshops for Mathematics, Science, and Technology Teachers (NEWMAST) provides outstanding teachers of mathematics, science, and technology an opportunity to spend 2 weeks at a NASA field center studying NASA's latest technological information.

  • The NASA Space Science Student Involvement Program includes the Mission to Planet Earth Project (grades 6-8), in which teams of students develop an interdisciplinary program that would use space technology to investigate the effects of human activity on the earth's ecosystem.

  • The NASA Teacher Resource Center Network comprises 9 Teacher Resource Centers, located at the 9 NASA field centers listed above in this entry. The Teacher Resource Centers disseminate NASA educational materials (videotapes, slides, audiotapes, publications, lesson plans, and activities) on science, mathematics, and technology. These materials are also disseminated by 47 Regional Teacher Resource Centers in 36 states, and by NASA's Central Operation of Resources for Educators (see 11.65).

  • NASA's Urban Community Enrichment Program trains lead-teacher teams to conduct interdisciplinary aerospace activities in schools and to train other teachers.

11.67

National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center

,

Mail Code CL-01,

Huntsville, AL 35812-0001

(205) 961-1225

http://spacelink.nasa.gov

One of 9 NASA field centers serving multistate areas. Programs/services: NASA Spacelink—electronic resource providing access to NASA aeronautics and space information, educator guides, and other materials of interest to teachers, faculty, and students.

11.68

National Association for Research in Science Teaching (NARST)

,

c/o Arthur L. White,

NARST Executive Secretary,

1929 Kenny Rd.,

Rm. 200E,

The Ohio State University,

Columbus, OH 43210

(614) 292-3339

http://science.coe.uwf.edu/narst/narst.html

Professional association of more than 1,400 science teachers, supervisors,

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

and science educators worldwide, organized to improve science teaching through research and teacher education. Programs/services: Annual convention, with more than 200 research papers; promotion and coordination of science education research, with interpretation and reporting of the results; NARSTNET listserv [listserve@science.coe.uwf.edu]. Publications/materials: Journal of Research in Science Teaching; NARST Research Matters—to the Science Teacher; monographs; newsletter.

11.69

National Association of Biology Teachers

,

11250 Roger Bacon Dr.,

No. 19,

Reston, VA 20190-5202

(703) 471-1134;

(800) 406-0775

Professional society of more than 7,000 biology educators and administrators, representing all grade levels. Programs/services: Annual convention; 1- and 2-day regional summer workshops; student achievement and science fair awards. Publications/materials: Curriculum materials; curriculum guidelines; monographs and special publications; The American Biology Teacher (journal); catalog of materials; career information (video and publications); posters; newsletter.

11.70

National Association of Geoscience Teachers

,

Department of Geology-9080,

Western Washington University,

Bellingham, WA 98225-9080

(360) 650-3587

Professional education society with 2,000 members, including college and university professors, and geology and earth science teachers. Programs/services: Workshops; conferences and field trips for teachers; annual Outstanding Earth Science Teacher Award Program; annual state and regional awards to precollege teachers. Publications/materials: Journal of Geoscience Education—with educational articles for secondary and college-level teachers; space poster, with ideas for 18 activities for middle-level students; earth science slide sets.

11.71

National Audubon Society

,

700 Broadway,

New York, NY 10003

(212) 979-3000

Organization with 600,000 members and 40 state and 500 local groups (distinct from Audubon Societies of certain states, which are independent); concerned with ecology, natural resources, wildlife, and habitats. Programs/services: Workshops; instructional materials for teachers; information hotline; database of scientists available for helping teachers; Audubon camps. Publications/materials: Curriculum units with hands-on materials; audiovisual and computer-based materials; Audubon (magazine); posters; newsletter.

11.72

National Center for Improving Science Education

,

2000 L St., N.W.,

Suite 603,

Washington, DC 20036

(202) 467-0652

http://www.wested.org

Division of WestEd of San Francisco, Calif., an organization dedicated to educational reform. Programs/services: Provides guidance for educational policymakers, curriculum developers, and practitioners by synthesizing findings in policy studies, research reports, and exemplary practices and by transforming them into practical resources, with 1 area of emphasis chosen for synthesis work each year; offers workshops by technical assistance teams. Publications/materials: Publications list; curriculum guidelines; guidelines for policymakers; information for parents in resource book and pamphlets; books and monographs, including Assessment in Science Education: The Middle Years; Building Scientific Literacy: A Blueprint for Science Education in the Middle Years; and Science and Technology Education for the Middle Years: Frameworks for Curriculum and Instruction.

11.73

National Center for Research on Teacher Learning

.

Michigan State University,

College of Education,

116 Erickson Hall,

East Lansing, MI 48824-1034

(517) 355-9302

http://ncrtl.msu.edu

Center for research on how teachers learn to teach and engage students in active learning. Programs/services: Projects specifically focused on science and mathematics. Publications/materials: Research reports, issue papers, technical series, videotapes, and special reports on contemporary issues in teaching education.

11.74

National Earth Science Teachers Association

,

2000 Florida Ave., N.W.,

Washington, DC 20009

(202) 462-6910;

(800) 966-2481

Professional society of 1,000 earth science teachers and others interested in earth science education. Programs/services: Workshops and rock swaps at national and regional National Science Teachers Association meetings; summer field trips and field conferences. Publications/materials: The Earth Scientist (journal); scripted slide sets.

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

11.75

National Energy Foundation

,

5225 Wiley Post Way,

Suite 170,

Salt Lake City, UT 84116 (801) 539-1406 http://www.nef1.org

Nonprofit educational organization devoted to the development of instructional materials on natural resources and the implementation of innovative teacher-training and student programs. Programs/services: Workshops for teachers on mining education; student-team energy patrols; student debate program. Publications/materials: Curriculum units with hands-on materials; curriculum guidelines; supplementary materials; posters; newsletter for teachers; catalog of materials.

11.76

National Gardening Association

,

180 Flynn Ave.,

Burlington, VT 05401

(802) 863-1308;

(800) 538-7476

http://www.garden.org

Organization focused on using plants and gardens as vehicles for learning. Programs/services: Teacher development programs and workshops for teachers; Web site focused on garden-based learning; youth garden grant program. Publications/materials: The GrowLab Science Program —curriculum materials for using indoor classroom gardens; GrowLab: Activities for Growing Minds (curriculum); Growing Ideas: A Journal of Garden-Based Learning—educator's journal with classroom-tested project ideas.

11.77

National Geographic Society

,

1145 17th St., N.W.,

Washington, DC 20036

(202) 857-7000;

(800) 368-2728

http://www.nationalgeographic.com

World's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organization. Publications/materials: National Geographic Kids Network—computer-and telecommunications-based science curriculum (grades 4-9), developed in cooperation with TERC (see 11.114), in which student-scientists investigate real-world scientific issues and exchange information with other students around the world, providing hands-on experience in scientific methods and computer technology; CD-ROMs; interactive videodiscs; films; books; National Geographic Magazine; National Geographic World—general interest magazine for ages 8-14.

11.78

National Information Center for Educational Media (NICEM)

,

P.O. Box 8640,

Albuquerque, NM 87198-8640

(505) 265-3591;

(800) 926-8328

http://www.nicem.com

Center maintaining an international database of educational media and materials, covering all subject areas and age levels. The database of more than 400,000 nonprint materials contains numerous entries for science materials. Programs/services: Abstracting and indexing of media materials; contracting to do user-defined searches for special projects requiring media acquisition; providing of custom catalog services based on NICEM's or on a client's media collection. Publications/materials: Print indexes; on-line files; CD-ROMs.

11.79

National Institute for Science Education

,

1025 W. Johnson St.,

Madison, WI 53706

(608) 263-9250

http://www.wcer.wisc.edu/nise

Center for research on issues related to science, mathematics, engineering, and technology education. Programs/services: Conducts and synthesizes research on education in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology, concentrating on national policy studies, professional development programs, and dissemination programs. Publications/materials: The Why Files—Web page that examines the science behind the news [http://whyfiles.news.wisc.edu]; newsletter.

11.80

National Marine Educators Association

,

P.O. Box 1470,

Ocean Springs, MS 39566-1470

(601) 374-7557

http://www.marine-ed.org

Association of professionals from education (kindergarten through graduate school), science, business, government, museums, aquariums, and marine research, with more than 1,200 members and 16 regional chapters; focused on marine and aquatic studies. Programs/services: Teachers' workshops and opportunities for networking with scientists at annual conference and at conferences organized by regional chapters. Publications/materials: Current: The Journal of Marine Education, with activities; newsletter, with reviews of curricular materials.

11.81

National Middle Level Science Teachers Association

,

c/o Rowena Hubler,

Ohio Department of Education,

65 S. Front St.,

Columbus, OH 43215-4183

(614) 466-2761

http://www.nsta.org/nmlsta/index.htm

Association of middle-level science educators with 1,000 members; affiliate of the National Science Teachers Association. Programs/services: With American Plastics Council (see 11.19), developed Hands On Plastics: A Scientific Investigation Kit; middle-level programs, presented at regional and national conventions of the National Science Teachers Association. Publications/materials: Level Line—newsletter with ideas for

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

student investigations, demonstrations, inexpensive teaching materials, summer opportunities and professional development for middle-level teachers.

11.82

National Research Council; Center for Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Education

,

2101 Constitution Ave.,

N.W., Washington, DC 20418

(202) 334-2353

http://www2.nas.edu/center

The National Research Council (NRC) is the operating arm of three honorary academies: the National Academy of Sciences, the National Academy of Engineering, and the Institute of Medicine. NRC's primary concern is advising the federal government on matters of science and technology policy. Since 1995, the NRC has become increasingly active in efforts to improve science education and has been a leader in the development of standards for precollege science education, completing the development of the National Science Education Standards (see 7.27) in 1995. The mission of the NRC's Center for Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Education is to promote the improvement of education in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology for all members of society. Programs/services:

  • [(202) 334-3628] The National Science Education Standards Project has a comprehensive outreach strategy to support national, state, and local utilization of the Standards through leadership and resource development, partnerships and networks, and targeted symposia and workshops.

  • [(202) 334-2110] The Center provides scientists and engineers with information and resources to assist them in contributing effectively to K-12 science education partnerships ranging from classroom interactions to systemic reform programs.

11.83

National Science Education Leadership Association (NSELA)

,

P.O. Box 5556,

Arlington, VA 22205

(703) 524-8646

Association with 1,200 members—chairpersons, department heads, science supervisors, coordinators, and other leaders in science education; focused on improving science education through leadership development. Programs/services: Miniconferences; leadership institutes; other programs to develop leadership skills. Publications/materials: Issues in Science Education; NSELA Handbook; The Science Educator (journal); newsletter.

11.84

National Science Foundation, Directorate for Education and Human Resources

,

4201 Wilson Blvd.,

Arlington, VA 22230

(703) 306-1600

http://www.ehr.nsf.gov

The Directorate for Education and Human Resources of the National Science Foundation, an independent federal agency, is a major force for improving science education in the United States; it initiates and sponsors a wide variety of projects to improve education in science, mathematics, and engineering. Programs/services: The directorate's work in precollege science education is carried out by several divisions:

  • [(703) 306-1690] Division of Educational System Reform (see 11.85), concerned with 3 large-scale reform programs: the Rural Systemic Initiatives Program, Statewide Systemic Initiatives Program, and Urban Systemic Initiatives Program.

  • [(703) 306-1620] Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education (see 11.86), concerned with curriculum and teacher enhancement in science, mathematics, and engineering.

  • [(703) 306-1640] Division of Human Resource Development (see 11.87), concerned with broadening the participation of persons in underrepresented groups in science, mathematics, and engineering.

  • [(703) 306-1670] Division of Undergraduate Education, concerned with undergraduate education in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology.

Publications/materials: Guide to Programs (for current fiscal year); Indicators of Science and Mathematics Education; Indicators of Science and Engineering Education; other reports; fact sheets.

11.85

National Science Foundation, Directorate for Education and Human Resources, Division of Educational System Reform

,

4201 Wilson Blvd.,

Rm. 875,

Arlington, VA 22230

(703) 306-1690

http://www.ehr.nsf.gov/ehr/esr

The Division of Educational System Reform, in the National Science Foundation's Directorate of Education and Human Resources (see 11.84), operates the following programs that support systemic improvements in science, mathematics, and technology education in grades K-12. Programs/services:

  • [(703) 306-1684] The Rural Systemic Initiatives Program—supports projects to make systemic improvements in science, mathematics, and technology education in rural, economically disadvantaged regions.

  • [(703) 306-1682] The Statewide Systemic Initiatives Program—supports comprehensive, systemic, statewide efforts to change educational systems and improve science, mathematics, and technology education.

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×
  • [(703) 306-1684] The Urban Systemic Initiatives Program—supports comprehensive, systemic efforts at fundamental reform of science, mathematics, and technology education in large urban school systems.

11.86

National Science Foundation, Directorate for Education and Human Resources; Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education

,

4201 Wilson Blvd.,

Rm. 885,

Arlington, VA 22230

(703) 306-1620

http://www.ehr.nsf.gov/ehr/esie

The Division of Elementary, Secondary, and Informal Education in the National Science Foundation's Directorate for Education and Human Resources (see 11.84) operates the following programs. Programs/services:

  • [(703) 306-1615] The Informal Science Education Program—supports nonschool projects (e.g., by museums and youth organizations) to increase involvement with science, mathematics, and technology.

  • [(703) 306-1614] The Instructional Materials Development program—supports development of innovative, comprehensive, and diverse materials implementing standards-based reform in science, mathematics, and technology.

  • [(703) 306-1613] The Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching Program—provides national recognition to outstanding teachers in science and mathematics.

  • [(703) 306-1613] The Teacher Enhancement Program—supports projects to enhance the content knowledge and pedagogical skills of teachers of science, mathematics, and technology in grades K-12.

  • [(703) 306-1616] The Young Scholars Program—encourages students in grades 7-12 to investigate careers in science, mathematics, and technology by working with practicing scientists.

11.87

National Science Foundation, Directorate for Education and Human Resources, Division of Human Resource Development

,

4201 Wilson Blvd.,

Rm. 815,

Arlington, VA 22230

(703) 306-1640

http://www.ehr.nsf.gov/ehr/hrd

The Division of Human Resource Development, in the National Science Foundation's Directorate for Education and Human Resources (see 11.84), operates the following programs. Programs/services:

  • [(703) 306-1633] The Comprehensive Partnerships for Mathematics and Science Achievement Program—supports school systems with significant minority populations in creating partnerships to improve the access of minority students in grades K-12 to science and mathematics education.

  • [(703) 306-1636] Programs for Persons with Disabilities—supports programs to develop new teaching methods, increase recognition of needs and capabilities of students with disabilities, promote accessibility of appropriate instructional materials and technologies, and increase availability of mentoring resources.

  • [(703) 306-1637] Program for Women and Girls in Science, Engineering and Mathematics—supports model projects, experimental projects, and information-dissemination activities to improve the science, mathematics, and technology education of women and to increase their numbers in these fields.

11.88

National Science Resources Center

,

Smithsonian Institution,

MRC 403,

Arts and Industries Bldg.,

Rm. 1201,

Washington, DC 20560

(202) 357-2555

http://www.si.edu/nsrc

Organization sponsored jointly by the National Academy of Sciences and the Smithsonian Institution to contribute to the improvement of science education in the nation's schools. Programs/services: Workshops at National Science Teachers Association and other meetings; Leadership Institutes to train teams from school districts across the country on science education reform issues and methods; technical support for school districts involved in science education reform; support of other organizations in reform efforts. Publications/materials: Science and Technology for Children—series of 24 core curriculum units (grades 1-6) in the physical, life, and earth sciences; Science and Technology Concepts for Middle School—series of 8 core curriculum units for grades 7-8 (under development); 2 resource guides—Resources for Teaching Elementary School Science and Resources for Teaching Middle School Science; Science for All Children: A Guide to Improving Elementary Science Education in Your School District—comprehensive guide to systemic science education reform in the nation's elementary schools; newsletter.

11.89

National Science Teachers Association (NSTA)

,

1840 Wilson Blvd.,

Arlington, VA 22201-3000

(703) 243-7100

http://www.nsta.org

Organization committed to promoting excellence and innovation in science teaching and learning for all, with membership of more than 53,000, including science teachers, supervisors, administrators, scientists, and business and industry representatives.

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

Programs/services: One national and 3 regional conferences per year; certification of science teachers in 8 teaching-level and discipline-area categories; computer bulletin board; educational tours; nearly 25 award programs for teachers and students. Publications/materials: Science Scope and The Science Teacher (journals); NSTA Reports! (newspaper); NSTA Pathways to the Science Standards (guidebooks on putting the standards into practice in the classroom); curriculum units; supplementary activities; other instructional materials and publications; posters; complete catalog of titles.

11.90

National Student Research Center

,

Mandeville Middle School,

2525 Soult St.,

Mandeville, LA 70448

(504) 626-5980

http://yn.la.ca.us/nsrc/nsrc.html

Organization that promotes student research and the use of scientific methods in all areas of the K-12 curriculum. Programs/services: Facilitating the establishment of student research centers in schools; electronic network of mentors; electronic libraries of student research, with search and retrieval capabilities. Publications/materials: Printed and electronic journals of student research; program development packet for teachers.

11.91

National Weather Association

,

6704 Wolke Ct.,

Montgomery, AL 36116-2134

(334) 213-0388

http://www.nwas.org

Professional association supporting and promoting excellence in operational meteorology and related activities. Programs/services: Annual awards program; grants to teachers for professional development or purchase of materials and equipment for the classroom; time donated by members serving as speakers and science fair judges, and in responding to inquiries on science subjects and career planning. Publications/materials: Career publications; National Weather Digest (journal); newsletter; monographs; audiovisual materials.

11.92

National Wildlife Federation

,

8925 Leesburg Pike,

Vienna, VA 22184-0001

(703) 790-4000

http://www.nwf.org

Federation of 6,500 state and territorial conservation organizations and associate members; focused on conservation of wildlife and other natural resources. Programs/services:

  • Animal Tracks—curriculum materials and teacher-training workshops (grades K-8).

  • Campus Ecology—student involvement program focused on projects that improve practices on campus and reduce adverse campus impact on the environment; extensive outdoor education programs for all age groups.

  • NatureQuest—workshops for educators and nature and science counselors.

  • School Yard Habitat—certification and technical assistance program for developing school grounds into outdoor classrooms.

Publications/materials: National Wildlife Week (annual topical kit of educational activities and posters); Ranger Rick's NatureScope (activity manuals for teachers and program leaders); Conservation Directory (comprehensive annual listing of state, national, and international environmental organizations and agencies); Media Guide to Environmental Resources (annual); Ranger Rick, National Wildlife, and International Wildlife (magazines); audiovisual materials.

11.93

Network for Portable Planetariums

,

c/o Susan Reynolds,

Portable Planetarium Specialist,

Onondaga-Cortlandt-Madison BOCES,

P.O. Box 4754,

Syracuse, NY 13221

(315) 433-2671

International network of users of portable and small stationary planetariums, established to help members deliver planetarium-based educational experiences; focused on astronomy and space science. Programs/services: Database of portable-planetarium experts throughout the world who are available for career and technical consultation and workshops; semiannual regional meetings for reviewing materials in the public domain file, demonstrating lessons and techniques, and discussing common problems. Publications/materials: Public domain file of curriculum materials and pre-/postvisit materials; booklet of tips for portable planetarium users.

11.94

North American Association for Environmental Education

,

1255 23rd St., N.W.,

Suite 400,

Washington, DC 20037-1199

(202) 884-8912

http://eelink.umich.edu/naaee.html

Professional organization for persons involved with environmental education; develops and promotes environmental education programs and fosters discussion of important issues. Programs/services: Annual conference that includes opportunities and workshops for teachers. Publications/materials: Directory of Environmental Educators (updated annually); books, including Environmental Education in the Schools, Essential Learning in Environmental Education, Environmental Problem Solving, and many other titles; catalog of materials; newsletter.

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

11.95

Optical Society of America

,

2010 Massachusetts Ave., N.W.,

Washington, DC 20036

(202) 223-8130;

(800) 762-6960

International association of optical scientists and engineers, with 12,000 members; offers a special category of membership for teachers with an interest in optics. Programs/services: Educators Day—at the society's annual meeting, science teachers invited by their local society chapter participate in a program of lectures, seminars, and workshops on innovative techniques for using optics in their classrooms; local and student chapter grants, frequently used for local education outreach programs; science fair sponsorship. Publications/materials: Optics Discovery Kit (hands-on optics kit); Careers in Optics and Photonics (video); monthly magazine columns on optics and science education and on optics experiments for children.

11.96

Pacific Planetarium Association

,

c/o Jon Elvert,

2300 Leo Harris Pkwy.,

Eugene, OR 97401

(541) 687-STAR (program information);

(541) 461-8227

http://www.efn.org/˜esd_plt

Regional association of professionals from 70 planetariums (including many that are school-based) in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Oregon, Washington; focused primarily on astronomy and earth and space science for grades K-12. Programs/services: State in-service workshops; annual conference; scientist collaborations with individual teachers, and teacher-scientist partnerships supported by individual planetariums; information about the region's planetariums and their programs. Publications/materials: Career publications; curriculum units with hands-on materials; curriculum guidelines; audiovisual materials; newsletter.

11.97

Project WET

,

The Watercourse Program,

201 Culbertson Hall,

Montana State University,

Bozeman, MT 59717-0057

(406) 994-5392

http://www.montana.edu/wwwwet

Nonprofit supplementary education program for educators and students (grades K-12), focused on water resources and related issues; cosponsored by The Watercourse Program (which was created with funding from the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bureau of Reclamation) and by the Western Regional Environmental Education Council; available through Project WET coordinators in 46 states and the Northern Mariana Islands. Programs/services: Workshops and institutes for teachers; teacher-scientist collaborations; information hotline. Publications/materials: Project WET Curriculum and Activity Guide, with more than 90 hands-on water activities; Science Activities (magazine for teachers); WETnet Newsletter; WOW! The Wonders of Wetlands Guide; The Water Story (magazine for students); other publications and modules.

11.98

Project WILD

,

5430 Grosvenor Lane,

Suite 230,

Bethesda, MD 20814

(301) 493-5447

http://eelink.umich.edu/wild

Nonprofit interdisciplinary, supplementary wildlife-based environmental education program for educators (grades K-12), developed jointly by the Council for Environmental Education and the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies; available in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, 11 Canadian provinces, and several foreign countries. Programs/services: Basic and advanced workshops for educators, available statewide and, in most states, sponsored by the state's wildlife agency and/or department of education. Publications/materials: Available only through workshops: Project WILD K-12 Activity Guide (emphasizing wildlife and habitat); Project WILD Aquatic Education Activity Guide (emphasizing aquatic wildlife and ecosystems).

11.99

Quality Education for Minorities Network

,

1818 N St., N.W.,

Suite 350,

Washington, DC 20036

(202) 659-1818

Network devoted to ensuring that minorities in the United States have equal access to educational opportunities. Programs/services: Operates the Community Service Centers Project—a pilot effort to establish community service centers on college and university campuses located near low-income public housing, and targeting groups underrepresented in science: Native Americans, African Americans, Mexican Americans, Native Alaskans, and Puerto Ricans. Various educational activities offered at the centers, including some to empower students and parents to become advocates for quality education.

11.100

Raptor Education Foundation

,

21901 E. Hampden Ave.,

Aurora, CO 80013

(303) 680-8500

Organization devoted to promoting environmental literacy, using raptors (birds of prey) as a central focus. Programs/services: Introductory program on raptors and owls of America; live-raptor programs with instructional materials; teacher-scientist collaborations; scientist mentors and research opportunities for students; speakers. Publications/materials: Curriculum units with hands-on materials; newsletter.

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

11.101

Rocky Mountain Planetarium Association (RMPA)

,

c/o John Peterson,

RMPA President,

El Paso Planetarium,

6531 Boeing Dr.,

El Paso, TX 79925

(915) 779-4316

Regional association of professionals from planetariums (including many that are school-based) in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Texas, Utah, Wyoming; focused on astronomy and space science. Programs/services: Information about the region's planetariums and their programs, workshops, instructional materials for teachers, research opportunities for students. Publications/materials: Some supplemental activities and audiovisual and computer-based materials produced by individual planetariums, available from the association.

11.102

School Science and Mathematics Association

,

Department of Curriculum and Foundations,

Bloomsburg University,

400 E. Second St.,

Bloomsburg, PA 17815-1301

(717) 389-4915

http://hubble.bloomu.edu/˜ssma

Organization with 1,000 members—teacher educators and teachers of K-12 science and mathematics. Programs/services: Workshops at annual meetings; small grants. Publications/materials: Curriculum units emphasizing science-mathematics integration; Topics for Teachers (monograph series); Classroom Activities (monograph series); School Science and Mathematics (journal); newsletter.

11.103

Science-by-Mail

,

Museum of Science,

Science Park,

Boston, MA 02114-1099

(617) 589-0437;

(800) 729-3300

http://www.mos.org/mos/sbm/sciencemail.html

National pen pal program that pairs students in grades 4-9 with scientist mentors. Programs/services: Participants receive 2 science activity packets, the name and address of a scientist with whom to correspond during the school year, and a certificate upon completion of each packet. Publications/materials: Hands-on activity packets, including 6 to 8 activities each, illustrated instruction booklet, and teacher's notes.

11.104

Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society

,

99 Alexander Dr.,

P.O. Box 13975,

Research Triangle Park, NC 27709 (919) 549-4691;

(800) 243-6534

http://www.sigmaxi.org

Interdisciplinary honor society of more than 85,000 research scientists and engineers affiliated with some 500 local Sigma Xi groups throughout North America. Programs/services: Available mostly through local Sigma Xi groups: teacher-scientist partnerships; speakers bureaus; classroom demonstrations; curriculum development with teachers; sponsorship of science fairs; lab visits for students; scientist mentors for students. Publications/materials: From Sigma Xi headquarters: brochures to promote scientist-teacher partnerships and scientist involvement in reform efforts; names and addresses of the officers of local Sigma Xi groups; American Scientist (magazine). From local groups: curriculum guidelines and units; audiovisual and computer-based materials; lab equipment/supplies for loan or as gift.

11.105

Smithsonian Institution, Office of Education

,

MRC 402,

Arts and Industries Bldg.,

Rm. 1163,

Washington, DC 20560

(202) 357-2425

http://educate.si.edu

The Smithsonian Institution's central office for precollege education, drawing on the Smithsonian's complex of museums, exhibitions, collections, and staff expertise to create a range of materials and programs. Programs/services: Summer seminars for teachers; Smithsonian Institution—National Faculty Program (regional workshops); museum magnet schools (for students from Washington, D.C., public schools); video programs. Publications/materials: Art to Zoo (quarterly free curriculum guide); curriculum booklets; Resource Guide for Teachers; Carousel (guide to the Smithsonian Institution for teachers and school groups).

11.106

Society for Advancement of Chicans and Native Americans in Science

,

Applied Sciences,

Trailer #5,

University of California at Santa Cruz,

Santa Cruz, CA 95064

(408) 459-4272

Society of 600 professionals in science and education seeking to increase the participation of Latinos and Native Americans in science. Programs/services: Teacher workshops at annual meeting; scientist collaboration with teachers. Publications/materials: Curriculum units with hands-on materials; newsletter, with a section on K-12 programs.

11.107

Society for Developmental Biology

,

9650 Rockville Pike,

Bethesda, MD 20814-3998

(301) 571-0647

http://sdb.bio.purdue.edu

Professional society of biologists specializing in the development and growth of organisms. Programs/services: Science education outreach sessions for K-12 teachers at regional conferences and national annual meeting; Web site on developmental biology and related areas; list of scientists available to help in classrooms and to serve as a resource for teachers and students. Publications/materials: Newsletter.

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

11.108

Society for Sedimentary Geology

,

1731 E. 71st St.,

Tulsa, OK 74136-5108

(918) 493-3361;

(800) 865-9765

International organization of geologists who study sediments and sedimentary rocks. Programs/services: Workshops for teachers at annual meeting. Publications/materials: A Sedimentary Geologists' Guide to K-12 Earth Science Education—providing suggestions about classroom visits and activities and resources; Hands-on Geology: K-12 Activities and Resources and On the Rocks: Earth Science Activities for Grades 1-8—collections of activities for use in the classroom; Careers in Sedimentary Geology—brochure with answers to commonly asked questions.

11.109

Soil and Water Conservation Society

,

7515 N.E. Ankeny Rd.,

Ankeny, IA 50021

(515) 289-2331;

(800) THE-SOIL

http://www.swcs.org

Multidisciplinary educational and scientific organization for professionals in natural resource management, with many activities carried out by local chapters. Programs/services: Occasional teacher workshops; statewide environmental science fairs sponsored by some chapters. Publications/materials: Cartoon booklets on natural resource topics (water cycle, food cycle, plants, wildlife, range management, ecosystem management, wetlands) for students (ages 8-11), and related teacher's guides.

11.110

Southeastern Planetarium Association

,

c/o Mike Chesman,

Bays Mountain Planetarium,

853 Bays Mountain Park Rd.,

Kingsport, TN 37660

(423) 229-9447

Regional association of professionals from planetariums (including many that are school-based) in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and Puerto Rico; focused primarily on astronomy and earth science, and also on the physical sciences and biology. Programs/services: Sessions at annual meeting; database of scientists who are available to help teachers; promotion of scientist collaboration with individual teachers; information about the region's planetariums and their programs. Publications/materials: Newsletter.

11.111

Southwest Association of Planetariums (SWAP)

,

c/o Donna Favour,

SWAP President,

Richardson Independent School District Planetarium,

9465 Whitehurst Dr.,

Dallas, TX 75243

(214) 503-2490

Regional association of professionals from planetariums (including many that are school-based) in Arkansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas; focused on astronomy and space science. Programs/services: Annual conference; information about the region's planetariums and their programs. Publications/materials: Newsletter.

11.112

Students Watching Over Our Planet Earth

,

Rte. 6, Box 211,

Fairmont, WV 26554

(304) 363-4309

Environmental education program in more than 1,100 schools in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, and several foreign countries; creates and coordinates science research projects on environmental topics for students (grades K-12), and promotes collaborations over the Internet [e-mail: kanawha@aol.com] among schools nationwide; enrolls only teachers. Services: Provides teacher support through electronic newsletters, online discussions, and individual support; creates computer protocols and links schools; sets research problems for students; processes and disseminates research results. Publications/materials: Background materials; hands-on laboratory activities on water quality.

11.113

Teachers Clearinghouse for Science and Society Education

,

One W. 88th St.,

New York, NY 10024

(212) 787-5315

Clearinghouse focused on providing classroom teachers with information on the latest advances in science education, with special emphasis on education in the area of science, technology, and society. Publications: Teachers Clearinghouse for Science and Society Education Newsletter, and annual single-topic supplement.

11.114

TERC

,

2067 Massachusetts Ave.,

Cambridge, MA 02140

(617) 547-0430

http://www.terc.edu

Nonprofit education research and development organization focused on science and mathematics learning and teaching. Programs/services: LabNet—electronic community of elementary and secondary teachers that fosters science and mathematics teaching [http://labnet.terc.edu/labnet]; The Hub—electronic source of materials and information [http://ra.terc.edu]. Publications/materials: National Geographic Kids Network/Middle Grades (see 11.77), developed with National Geographic Society; Global Laboratory—network of student scientists involved in collaborative environmental investigations; Tabletop—software for visualization in data collection and analysis; Literacy in a

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

Science Context—hands-on human physiology curriculum; Hands On!—periodical on science, mathematics, and technology education; publications on telecommunications.

11.115

The Transformations Project

,

P.O. Box 1205,

Jamaica Plain, MA 02130-1205

(617) 323-4514

http://www.hellgate.k12.mt.us/tp

National, nonprofit partnership program that teams engineers with middle-level educators for an exploration of technology. Programs/services Participants linked through the Internet; outreach training conducted by participants for other teachers and schools in their local community; support provided by a network of engineers to educational programs in these local schools and on an interactive Web site for project activities. Publications/materials: Transformations: Science, Technology and Society—set of 8 videotapes with teacher's guides, serving as visual field trips for students and providing real-world applications of technology in society; posters.

11.116

Triangle Coalition for Science and Technology Education

,

5112 Berwyn Rd.,

College Park, MD 20740-4129

(301) 220-0870

http://www.triangle-coalition.org

Coalition with representation from more than 160 member organizations, including business, industry, and labor, scientific and engineering societies, education associations, and a national network of local alliances, working to link national efforts at science education reform with local schools and school districts. Programs/services: Promotes collaborations and partnerships between teachers and volunteer scientists through action groups or alliances; SWEPT—Scientific Work Experience Programs for Teachers. Publications/materials: Available on the World Wide Web: A Guide for Building an Alliance for Science, Mathematics and Technology Education and A Guide for Planning a Volunteer Program for Science, Mathematics and Technology Education; sent to e-mail addresses 45 times a year: The Triangle Coalition Electronic Bulletin.

11.117

U.S. Department of Agriculture; Cooperative State, Research, Education, and Extension Service (CSREES)

,

Rm. 3441,

South Building,

Washington, DC 20250

(202) 720-5853

Agency in U.S. Department of Agriculture that advances science and technology in support of agriculture, forestry, people, and communities in partnership with the State Agricultural Experiment Station System and the State Cooperative Extension System. (For information on specific CSREES programs and services, contact local county Cooperative Extension office.) Programs/services:

  • [(202) 720-5727] Ag in the Classroom Program—provides national coordination for states working to help K-12 students gain a greater awareness of agriculture's role in the economy and society;

  • 4-H SERIES Program (see 11.45);

  • National Network for Action in Science and Technology—supports implementation of science and technology curriculum and processes. [http://www.cyfernet.mes.umn.edu]

11.118

U.S. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

,

NOAA Public Affairs Correspondence Unit,

1305 East-West Hwy.,

Stn. 1W204,

Silver Spring, MD 20910

(301) 713-1208

Government agency that conducts research and gathers data about the oceans, atmosphere, space, and sun; sponsors a variety of educational outreach initiatives through 5 agencies (National Weather Service; National Marine Fisheries Service; National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service; National Ocean Service; and Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research) and through numerous special programs. Programs/services: Workshops; hands-on work experiences; lectures; facility tours; donations of weather instruments and computers; mentoring and tutoring programs; professional development opportunities for teachers; speakers bureau. Publications/materials: Career publications; curriculum guidelines; computer-based materials; instructional materials.

11.119

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Educational Research and Improvement

,

555 New Jersey Ave., N.W.,

Washington, DC 20808-5645

(202) 219-2116

http://www.ed.gov/offices/OERI/oeribro.html

An office of the U.S. Department of Education that supports research and disseminates information. Among its many activities, this office operates or supports the following:

  • Eisenhower National Clearinghouse for Mathematics and Science Education (see 11.41).

  • [(202) 219-2116] Ten Eisenhower Regional Mathematics and Science Education Consortia—provide information, technical

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

assistance, and training to states, schools, and teachers to help improve mathematics and science programs and adapt and use exemplary instructional materials, teaching methods, curricula, and assessment tools. Located in Aurora, Colo.; Austin, Tex.; Cambridge, Mass.; Charleston, W.Va.; Honolulu, Hawaii; Oak Brook, Ill.; Philadelphia, Pa.; Portland, Oreg.; San Francisco, Calif.; Tallahassee, Fla. [http://www.enc.org/partners/index.htm]

  • [(202) 219-1925] ERIC (Educational Resources Information Center)—includes 16 clearinghouses, each specializing in a different subject area of education. (See 11.44 for a description of the ERIC Clearinghouse for Science, Mathematics, and Environmental Education.) [http://www.aspensys.com/eric/index.html]

  • [(202) 219-2169] Javits Gifted and Talented Students Education Program —funds projects to help build a nationwide capability in elementary and secondary schools for meeting the special educational needs of gifted and talented students, including economically disadvantaged individuals, those with disabilities, and those with limited English proficiency. [http://www.ed.gov/prog_info/Javits]

  • [(202) 219-1761] National Assessment of Educational Progress—measures educational achievement of students in grades 4, 8, and 12, and, for science, uses a hands-on task and portfolio. Teacher and student questionnaires elicit information about instructional practices. [http://www.ed.gov/NCES/naep]

  • [(202) 219-2187] Ten Regional Educational Laboratories—do applied research and development on educational programs, materials, and professional development and that work with states and localities to implement systemic school improvement. Located in Aurora, Colo.; Austin, Tex.; Charleston, W.Va.; Greensboro, N.C.; Honolulu, Hawaii; Oak Brook, Ill.; Philadelphia, Pa.; Portland, Oreg.; Providence, R.I.; and San Francisco, Calif. [http://www.nwrel.org]

  • [(202) 219-8070] The Regional Technology in Education Consortia program—helps states, districts, schools, adult literacy centers, and other institutions use advanced technology to support improved teaching and student achievement. Six consortia focus their activities in 3 major areas—improving teaching and learning, professional development, and infrastructure development—and disseminate information and provide policy support related to those areas. [http://www.rtec/org]

  • [(202) 219-2186] Star Schools Program—funds partnerships using telecommunications and distance learning technologies (for example, satellites, fiber optics, computer networks) to improve education. [http://www.ed.gov/prog_info/StarSchools/index.html]

  • [(202) 219-1333] Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS)—measured achievement in mathematics and science in 1995 at grades 3, 4, 7, 8, and 12, in up to 41 countries, and also collected information about curriculum, instructional practices, and teachers in each country. [http://www.ed.gov/NCES/timss]

11.120

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE)

,

600 Maryland Ave., S.W.,

Washington, DC 20202-6100

(202) 401-0113

http://www.ed.gov/offices/OESE

An office of the U.S. Department of Education supporting elementary and secondary education through programs for compensatory education, school improvement, and special student populations. Programs/services: The Eisenhower Professional Development State Grants Program—supports teacher professional development activities through in-service and pre-service training, via state educational agencies to local school systems.

11.121

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Reclamation Environmental Education Program

,

P.O. Box 25007

(D-5100),

Denver, CO 80225-0007

(303) 236-9336, Ext. 223

http://www.usbr.gov

Programs/services: Presents indoor and outdoor programs for students and teachers (grades K-12) on many environmental subjects, especially water, at many locales in all states west of the Mississippi.

11.122

U.S. Department of the Interior, Earth Science Information Centers

,

Reston-ESIC,

507 National Center,

Reston, VA 20192

(703) 648-6045;

(800) USA-MAPS

http://www.usgs.gov/education

Nationwide information and sales centers for U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) map products and earth science publications. Centers located in Anchorage, Alaska; Denver, Colo.; Menlo Park, Calif.; Reston, Va.; Rolla, Mo.; Salt Lake City, Utah; Sioux Falls, S.Dak.; Spokane, Wash.; Stennis Space Center, Miss. Programs/services: The Learning Web, a portion of the USGS Web site dedicated to K-12 education, exploration, and life-long learning. Publications/materials: Teacher packets; booklets; posters; fact sheets; CD-ROMs; resource lists.

11.123 U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service,

P.O. Box 37127,

Rm. 7312,

Washington, DC 20013-7127

(202) 565-1052

The National Park Service assumes principal responsibility for administering the National Park System.

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×

Programs/services: Parks as Classrooms Program—arranges workshops for teachers at numerous sites, to encourage building curricula around resources at national parks; many sites have workshops focused at least in part on science.

11.124

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

,

401 M St., S.W.

[For Mail Code, see individual program listings, below],

Washington, DC 20460

Programs/services of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include the following:

  • [(202) 260-8619; Mail Code 1707] Environmental Education Grants Program —supports projects of state and local agencies and nonprofit organizations that design, demonstrate, or disseminate new approaches in environmental education, projects with wide potential applicability and addressing high-priority issues. Operated by EPA's Environmental Education Division.

  • [(202) 260-0578; Mail Code H-8105] EPA Research Laboratory-based Education Programs—offer teaching materials, workshops, lab visits, class presentations, and in-service events (grades K-12) in the localities of 13 EPA research laboratories (4 at Research Triangle Park, N.C.; 2 in Cincinnati, Ohio; and 1 each in Las Vegas, Nev.; Ada, Okla.; Athens, Ga.; Gulf Breeze, Fla.; Duluth, Minn.; Corvallis, Oreg.; and Narragansett, R.I.).

  • [(202) 260-7751; Mail Code 3404] Ten Public Information Centers (PICs) —offer environmental education materials (such as publications, data, and exhibits) for students and teachers (grades K-12). Located at regional EPA offices in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Kansas City, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle.

11.125

U.S. Space Foundation

,

2860 S. Circle Dr.,

Suite 2301,

Colorado Springs, CO 80906-4184

(719) 576-8000;

(800) 691-4000

http://www.ussf.org

Nonprofit educational organization that promotes national awareness and support for America's space endeavors. Programs/services: Space Discovery (5-day graduate course) and Teaching with Space (1-to-3-day in-service programs)—providing background information on space, ideas and methods for using space as a theme across the curricula (grades K-12), and ready-to-use activities and lessons for the classroom. Publications/materials: Foundation's Education Resource Center, serving as a distributor of free educational printed materials, posters, and videotapes from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Civil Air Patrol, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

11.126

World Wildlife Fund

,

1250 24th St., N.W.,

Washington, DC 20037-1175

(202) 293-4800

http://www.wwf.org

International conservation organization with more than 1 million members in the United States, and sponsoring more than 2,000 projects in 116 countries; dedicated to protecting the world's wildlife and rich biological diversity. Programs/services: Windows on the Wild—environmental education program on biodiversity. Publications/materials: Taking Action: An Educator's Guide to Involving Students in Environmental Action Projects; WOW! A Biodiversity Primer and Educator's Guide (magazine-style primer for middle school students); Biodiversity! Exploring the Web of Life, Web of Life, and Going, Going, Almost Gone! Animals in Danger (video education kits); Environmental Education in the Schools, (resource book); Biodiversity—From Sea to Shining Sea (poster kit).

11.127

Young Astronaut Council

,

1308 19th St., N.W.,

Washington, DC 20036

(202) 682-1984

http://www.yac.org

Corporation formed by the White House in 1984 to administer the Young Astronaut Program—national education program promoting the study of science, technology, and mathematics by building on the excitement of space; with more than 27,000 Young Astronaut Chapters formed in every state and in 42 foreign countries. Programs/services: Annual student conference; multidisciplinary competitions; broadcast live directly into classrooms, a Young Astronaut television course for grades 4-6. Publications/materials: Curriculum materials with hands-on activities; year-long curriculum for school-based Young Astronaut Chapters; newsletter; CD-ROM.

11.128

Young Entomologists' Society

,

1915 Peggy Pl.,

Lansing, MI 48910-2553

(517) 887-0499

http://www.tesser.com/minibeast

http://insects.ummz.lsa.umich.edu/yes/yes.html

Educational organization of more than 700 youth and amateur adult entomology enthusiasts. Programs/services: Insect science workshops; catalog of materials, offering a wide selection of entomological handbooks, manuals, resource guides, educational materials, and related products. Publications/materials: Curriculum and supplementary materials; audiovisual materials; newsletter for teachers and students; extensive bibliography; posters; career information.

Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×
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Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×
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×
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Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
×
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Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
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Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
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Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
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Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
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Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
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Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
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Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
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Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
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Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
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Suggested Citation:"11. Professional Associations and U.S. Government Organizations." Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Sciences, and National Academy of Engineering. 1998. Resources for Teaching Middle School Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. doi: 10.17226/5774.
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Page 395
Next: Appendix A »
Resources for Teaching Middle School Science Get This Book
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With age-appropriate, inquiry-centered curriculum materials and sound teaching practices, middle school science can capture the interest and energy of adolescent students and expand their understanding of the world around them.

Resources for Teaching Middle School Science, developed by the National Science Resources Center (NSRC), is a valuable tool for identifying and selecting effective science curriculum materials that will engage students in grades 6 through 8. The volume describes more than 400 curriculum titles that are aligned with the National Science Education Standards.

This completely new guide follows on the success of Resources for Teaching Elementary School Science, the first in the NSRC series of annotated guides to hands-on, inquiry-centered curriculum materials and other resources for science teachers.

The curriculum materials in the new guide are grouped in five chapters by scientific area—Physical Science, Life Science, Environmental Science, Earth and Space Science, and Multidisciplinary and Applied Science. They are also grouped by type—core materials, supplementary units, and science activity books.

Each annotation of curriculum material includes a recommended grade level, a description of the activities involved and of what students can be expected to learn, a list of accompanying materials, a reading level, and ordering information.

The curriculum materials included in this book were selected by panels of teachers and scientists using evaluation criteria developed for the guide. The criteria reflect and incorporate goals and principles of the National Science Education Standards. The annotations designate the specific content standards on which these curriculum pieces focus.

In addition to the curriculum chapters, the guide contains six chapters of diverse resources that are directly relevant to middle school science. Among these is a chapter on educational software and multimedia programs, chapters on books about science and teaching, directories and guides to science trade books, and periodicals for teachers and students.

Another section features institutional resources. One chapter lists about 600 science centers, museums, and zoos where teachers can take middle school students for interactive science experiences. Another chapter describes nearly 140 professional associations and U.S. government agencies that offer resources and assistance.

Authoritative, extensive, and thoroughly indexed—and the only guide of its kind—Resources for Teaching Middle School Science will be the most used book on the shelf for science teachers, school administrators, teacher trainers, science curriculum specialists, advocates of hands-on science teaching, and concerned parents.

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