National Academies Press: OpenBook

Resources for Teaching Middle School Science (1998)

Chapter: 9. Periodicals

« Previous: 8. Science Book Lists and Resource Guides
Suggested Citation:"9. Periodicals." 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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Using magazines to develop ideas for student projects

Suggested Citation:"9. Periodicals." 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 9
PERIODICALS

9.1 AIMS Magazine

Level: Teachers of grades 3-8+ AIMS Magazine is a teacher resource of ready-to-use science and mathematics activities for the primary, middle, and upper grades. Each issue has 3 sections—features, departments, and activities. The features section is dedicated to the "big ideas" in mathematics and science education. The departments section includes "Mind Bogglers" (for example, discrepant events), "Puzzle Corner" (to develop problem-solving strategies), "Tinkering, Toys and Teaching" (directions for building devices that can be used as instructional aids), "Maximizing Math" (open-ended, problem-solving situations), and "Side Talk" (dialogue about the processes and thinking involved in problem solving). Each activity includes background information, step-by-step procedures, and blackline student pages. Many of the ideas in this periodical can be adapted to other curriculum programs besides AIMS (Activities Integrating Mathematics and Science), for which the activities were developed.

Issues/price: 10 per year; $30 per year. Available from: AIMS Education Foundation.

9.2 Air & Space/Smithsonian

Teacher resource Air & Space/Smithsonian is the world's largest aerospace magazine and the official publication of the National Air and Space Museum of the Smithsonian Institution (see 10.270). Written especially for audiences interested in the history and technology of aerospace, the articles in this publication convey the adventure of flight and space travel. Readers learn how the U.S. military destroys its surplus B-52 bombers, take a look at the pioneering science fiction series Tom Corbett, or consider the great gamma ray mystery (an intriguing puzzle from the cosmos). Middle school teachers will find Air & Space/Smithsonian a source of instructive background information, enhanced by illustrations and photographs.

Issues/price: 6 per year; $20 per year. Available from: Air & Space/Smithsonian.

9.3 The American Biology Teacher

Teacher resource Providing background reading for middle school teachers, The American Biology Teacher presents nonfiction articles that report on the results of research on teaching alternatives; discuss the social and ethical implications of biology; provide specific how-to suggestions for laboratory, field activities, or interdisciplinary programs; and present imaginative views of the future and suggestions for coping with changes. The articles, by science educators, are accompanied by statistical graphs and tables and are fully referenced. Each issue includes

Suggested Citation:"9. Periodicals." 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.
×

ORDERING INFORMATION FOR PERIODICALS IN CHAPTER 9

To obtain the most current ordering information, readers should contact the publisher or supplier of the periodicals in chapter 9 directly. In some cases, discounts or special rates may be available to schools and educators.

The name of the place to contact for ordering a periodical is given immediately after its annotation. Appendix A, "Publishers and Suppliers," lists the addresses, telephone and fax numbers, and e-mail addresses, where available, of these publishers and suppliers.

a software review (which gives a general description of the software's purpose and information on ease of operation) and several reviews of recent books on biology.

Issues/price: 8 per year; $48 per year for National Association of Biology Teachers members; $60 per year for nonmembers. Available from: National Association of Biology Teachers.

9.4 Appraisal: Science Books for Young People

Level: Teachers of grades PreK, K, 1-8+ Appraisal reviews science trade books written for young people from age 3 to 17. Each issue begins with a feature article, such as "Wanted: An Electronic Librarian to Find Science Trade Books," or "Bringing Constructivity to the Classroom." The feature is followed by approximately 100 book reviews written by children's librarians and subject specialists; reviewers' names and affiliations are provided in each issue. Complete bibliographic information and a recommended reading level are included for each title. A rating is also provided—excellent, very good, good, fair, or unacceptable. This journal does not have an index.

Issues/price: 4 per year; $45 per year. Available from: Appraisal.

9.5 Art to Zoo: Teaching with the Power of Objects

Level: Teachers of grades 3-8 Art to Zoo—renamed Smithsonian in Your Classroom—brings exhibit-based lessons and activities from the Smithsonian Institution to science, social studies, and art teachers. Each issue focuses on a different topic—such as "Oceans and Weather," or "Visions of the Future: Technology and American Society"—and contains background information, lesson plans, classroom activities, activity sheets, and resource lists. An English/Spanish "Take-Home Page" can be duplicated for student use. Current and selected back issues of Art to Zoo are available in print and online [http://educate.si.edu/art-to-zoo/azindex.htm].

Issues/price: 4 per year; free. Available from: Smithsonian Office of Education.

9.6 Astronomy

Teacher resource Astronomy was developed to make the complex field of astronomy understandable and enjoyable for a broad audience. It covers all aspects of astronomy and reports on the latest astronomical news. Articles focus on topics such as the exploration of Mars, using gravitational lenses to probe the universe, and the birth of black holes. The "Sky Almanac" feature in each issue tells where and when to look so that one can see planets, spot constellations, or catch a shower of shooting stars. This color-fully illustrated magazine also reviews new products, such as telescopes, binoculars, and books, and software. It provides amateur astronomers with information on upcoming events and meetings.

Issues/price: 12 per year; $34.95 per year. Available from: Kalmbach.

9.7 Audubon

Teacher resource This bimonthly magazine from the National Audubon Society (see 11.71) focuses on the environment, wildlife, and protection of wildlife habitat. Illustrated with full-color photographs, Audubon includes features on topics such as wetlands preservation, the reintroduction of endangered species to their natural habitats, and the behavior of Arctic wolves in the wild. Each issue includes regular columns such as "Reports" (short explanations of recent scientific events and discoveries) and "Inside Audubon" (on people, places, and issues of interest to readers). Other articles in each issue present a wide range of news and feature material on natural history and the environment. Also included is a section of letters to the editor, "Other Voices, Other Views."

Issues/price: 6 per year; $20 per year. Available from: National Audubon Society.

Suggested Citation:"9. Periodicals." 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.
×

9.8 Chem Matters

Teacher resource Chem Matters is a magazine written for high school students that is also a useful source for keeping middle school teachers up to date on recent chemical advances. Nonfiction articles covering such issues as nicotine patches, biodegradable bags, insect arsenals, and the chemistry of ink help relate chemistry to everyday life. Each issue contains puzzles, cartoons, and descriptions of real-life mysteries solved through chemistry. The Chem Matters Classroom Guide for teachers offers additional facts and background information for each article, as well as high-school-level chemistry demonstrations, laboratory experiments, and questions for students to answer.

Issues/price: 4 per year; $8 per year. Chem Matters Classroom Guide: 4 per year; $3 per year. Available from: American Chemical Society.

9.9 Connect

Level: Teachers of grades K-8 Connect is a bimonthly newsletter published throughout the school year. It offers practical articles, written by teachers, to support hands-on learning, problem solving, and multidisciplinary approaches to the teaching of science and mathematics. Each 20-page issue focuses on a key theme, such as investigating water, wetlands, energy, or variation and classification, and includes photographs and illustrations. Regular features include science and technology news (specifically, current news stories chosen because of the teaching opportunities they offer) and resource reviews (theme-related items selected for their high quality and immediate usefulness).

Issues/price: 5 per year; $20 per year.

Available from: Teacher's Laboratory.

9.10 Discover: The World of Science

Level: Students, grades 7-8+, teachers Discover is a general-interest magazine devoted to increasing understanding in all areas of science, from archeology to ecology, technology to medicine, and astronomy to physics. This monthly magazine includes articles on the latest breakthroughs in major subjects of interest to a wide readership—for example, the origins of life, the evolution of the universe, the inner workings of the brain, and the mass extinction of the dinosaurs. The articles are written in a clear, engaging style, and are accessible to readers with varying levels of science background.

Educators who enroll in the Discover Magazine School Science Program receive a free monthly, 6-page teaching aid that includes innovative techniques for using Discover in the classroom. This guide provides article summaries, objectives, vocabulary words, quizzes, and hands-on activities, as well as a list of national educational resources.

Issues/price: Discover: 12 per year; $24.95 per year. Discover Magazine School Science Program (Discover magazine and educator's guide): 12 per year; $17.49. Available from: Discover.

9.11 Dolphin Log

Level: Students, grades 2-8 Each issue of Dolphin Log presents a variety of nonfiction articles on science, natural history, marine biology, ecology, and the environment as they relate to the global water system. The articles have colorful and instructive photographs. Features cover such subjects as sharks, making recycled paper, survivors of ancient seas, and the comeback of the California grey whale. Regular features include "Nature News," "Did You Know?" (interesting facts), "Creature Feature" (a focused exploration of one animal), and the "Cousteau Adventure" cartoon series. The magazine has games, puzzles, and hands-on activities for students.

Issues/price: 6 per year; $15 per year.

Available from: Cousteau Society.

9.12 Dragonfly

Level: Students, grades 3-6; teachers Dragonfly is a magazine for young investigators issued 5 times per school year by the National Science Teachers Association (see 11.89). Each issue focuses on a central theme—such as trees, communication, or ice and snow—and includes several articles written by student investigators describing experiments on that theme which they have conducted individually or with their class. Each issue also contains poetry, autobiographies, natural history essays, humor, artwork, and other creative expressions by children and scientists. Additionally, in some articles, "challenges" are issued by scientists; students can join with these scientists in carrying out investigations—for example, by gathering simple data as explained in the magazine. Dragonfly also allows students, teachers, and parents to exchange data, to learn about various scientific careers, and to have science questions answered by experts. Supplemental student activities for each issue are available on Dragonfly Net [http://www.MUOhio.edu/Dragonfly].

Dragonfly Teacher's Companion, available with each issue, is a 16-page handbook that offers useful ideas, discussion, and concrete recommendations for guiding student investigation. Detailed guidelines cover process skills, writing, cooperative learning, and self-assessment (allowing students to move through several stages of learning and investigation). A pull-out Dragonfly Home

Suggested Citation:"9. Periodicals." 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.
×

Companion suggests ways for parents to broaden family participation in children's science explorations.

Issues/prices: 5 per school year; $18.95 per year for teachers (with Dragonfly Teacher's Companion, and Dragonfly Home Companion); $12.95 per year for individuals (with Dragonfly Home Companion); $39.95 per year for libraries (including 3 teacher subscriptions); and $6.00 per year for each subscription for classrooms (20 or more individual subscriptions and 1 Dragonfly Teacher's Companion). Available from: National Science Teachers Association.

9.13 Earth: The Science of Our Planet

Level: Students, grades 6-8+; teachers This magazine takes middle school teachers and students on journeys from Antarctica to Amazonia, from the giant crystal at the planet's center to the atmosphere's outer limits, and from earth's earliest moments to its future. Earth presents the latest scientific discoveries about the land, oceans, atmosphere, biosphere, and history of life. A "Reports" section discusses the science behind critical issues of the day, such as global environmental change. Earth's in-depth articles, explanatory illustrations, and photographs provide teachers and students with an important source for research, for understanding the world, and for appreciating its wonders.

Issues/price: 6 per year; $19.95 per year. Available from: Kalmbach.

9.14 Electronic Learning

Teacher resource Educational technology, industry news, and conference and research reports are regularly featured subjects in Electronic Learning, a magazine on technology and school change. This periodical offers in-depth reviews of hardware and software. One major section provides articles on "Curriculum and Instruction." Another section, "Technology," focuses on evaluation and selection of software and on new and emerging technologies. An "Update" section provides a listing of new products available to educators, including software, hardware, books, CD-ROMs, and videodiscs.

Issues/price: 6 per year; $23.95 per year. Available from: Electronic Learning.

9.15 Exploring

Level: Students, grades 6-8+; teachers Exploring is a magazine of science, art, and human perception from The Exploratorium (see 10.62), one of the world's major hands-on museums, in San Francisco. Through articles, illustrations, and activities, Exploring communicates ideas that museum exhibits cannot easily demonstrate. Each issue examines a single topic from a variety of viewpoints. The focus on 1 topic per issue allows investigation and discussion of interconnections between apparently unrelated phenomena, revealing the essential unity of nature. For example, in Exploring Gardening, readers learn about techniques for double-digging garden beds, composting, gardening for birds and butterflies—and find out what the American yard says about our culture. Examples of topics include gardening, visual illusions, oceans, and sound.

Issues/price: 4 per year; $18 per year for individuals; $24 per year for institutions. Available from: The Exploratorium.

9.16 The Helix

Level: Students, grades 5-8+; teachers The Helix is the official magazine of an Australian science club for students ages 10 and up—the Double Helix Science Club of the Commonwealth Science and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO). The magazine contains information about competitions and experiments, as well as members' contributions and feature articles. In The Helix, students can learn about science careers, and teachers can gather ideas for classroom activities and discover new ways to approach current science topics. Although written for an Australian audience, The Helix contains much useful material for other student populations as well.

Issues/price: 6 per year; A$15 per year (within Australia) for CSIRO members; A$25 per year (outside Australia). Available from: CSIRO's Double Helix Science Club.

9.17 International Wildlife

Level: Students, grades 6-8+; teachers International Wildlife features in-depth nonfiction articles exploring wildlife topics from around the world and global environmental issues. A representative sampling from an issue might include articles on the Fennec fox in the Algerian Sahara, disappearing forests in Canada, the earth's top 10 environmental problems, the Bahama Parrot, and the diversity of life in Borneo's Mount Kinabalu. Articles are accompanied by excellent photographs. This magazine is a useful tool for both teacher and student research on nature worldwide and is a natural supplement to the classroom library.

Issues/price: 6 per year; $16 per year. Available from: National Wildlife Federation.

Suggested Citation:"9. Periodicals." 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.
×

9.18 Issues in Science and Technology

Teacher resource Issues in Science and Technology is a journal of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), the Institute of Medicine (IOM), and the Cecil and Ida Green Center for the Study of Science and Society at the University of Texas at Dallas. Issues is intended to inform public opinion and to raise the quality of private and public decision making by providing a forum for discussion and debate. Each issue includes feature articles on topics such as overcoming barriers to medical innovation and technology policy for a global economy. Regular columns include "Perspectives" (articles by scientists and academics) and book reviews. Middle school teachers will find this title a good resource on major new or controversial developments in the areas of science, technology, and health.

Issues/price: 4 per year; $43.50 per year. Available from: Issues in Science and Technology.

9.19 Journal of Chemical Education

Teacher resource The Journal of Chemical Education includes articles of interest to those who teach chemistry at all levels from high school through graduate courses. Published by the American Chemical Society's Division of Chemical Education, this "living textbook of chemistry" helps teachers stay current with research advances as well as with new ideas in teaching methodologies and course organization. Articles include reviews of developing areas of chemistry, methods for teaching difficult concepts, discussions of learning theory, lecture demonstrations, computer programs, course outlines, and laboratory experiments.

Issues/price: 12 per year; $34 per year for individuals; $70 per year for libraries, institutions, and companies. Available from: Journal of Chemical Education.

9.20 Journal of Geoscience Education

Teacher resource The Journal of Geoscience Education (formerly, Journal of Geological Education) is published by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (see 11.70). The journal fosters improvement in the teaching of earth sciences at all levels of formal and informal instruction. Its articles emphasize the cultural and environmental significance of this scientific field. Middle school science teachers will find it an important source of information on innovations and other aspects of teaching the earth sciences.

Issues/price: 5 per year; $33 per year. Available from: Journal of Geoscience Education.

9.21 Journal of Research in Science Teaching

Teacher resource The Journal of Research in Science Teaching is the official journal of the National Association for Research in Science Teaching (NARST) (see 11.68). Its scholarly articles discuss investigations employing various research approaches—such as experimental, qualitative, ethnographic, historical, survey, philosophical, and case study. Position papers, policy perspectives, and critical reviews of the literature are also presented. In the section "Comments and Criticism," readers express their views relating to articles in previous issues or to matters of interest to science educators.

Issues/price: 10 per year; $450 per year; $77 per year for NARST members. Available from: NARST.

9.22 Kansas School Naturalist

Level: Teachers of grades 3-8+ The Kansas School Naturalist is a 16-page magazine distributed twice a year to teachers, school administrators, youth leaders, librarians, conservationists, and others interested in natural history and nature education. Each issue focuses on a single topic. Examples include snowflies (flies that survive in the snow), the surface mining of coal, and the collection and maintenance of ants. Clearly written text is supported by helpful illustrations and graphs. Suggestions for simple student research projects and classroom and field activities are provided. Also featured are tips on data collection techniques and methods of experimental design.

Issues/price: Typically 2 per year; free. Available from: Emporia State University.

9.23 Kids Discover

Level: Students, grades 1-8 Kids Discover helps students explore the wonder of the world around them. Each issue focuses on a key theme, such as oceans, rainforests, fire, weather, light, volcanoes, or space. Easy-to-read text is accompanied by excellent color photographs and illustrations. The magazine poses challenging questions to students, and includes puzzles, additional

Suggested Citation:"9. Periodicals." 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.
×

resources for students and teachers on the issue's theme, and instructions for related hands-on activities.

Issues/price: 10 per year; $19.95 per year. Available from: Kids Discover.

9.24 Learning and Leading with Technology

Level: Teachers of grades K-8+ Learning and Leading with Technology focuses on curriculum development and practical ideas for using technology in the classroom. It emphasizes integrating technology where it can make a difference—for example, by easing the teacher's job; saving time; motivating students; helping students with varying learning styles, abilities, and backgrounds; and creating learning environments that are new or unique or that would be impossible without technology. Each issue contains articles by teachers, features, and software reviews that address language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, integrated curricula, and special needs. Other topics in an issue might include multimedia materials, telecommunications, computer science, networking, library and information technology, the single-computer classroom, staff development, and technology planning. Many articles include sample lesson plans, extensive resource lists, and reproducible work sheets for students and teachers.

Issues/price: 8 per year; $65 per year; $58 per year for members of International Society for Technology in Education. Available from: International Society for Technology in Education.

9.25 Middle School Journal

Teacher resource Middle School Journal provides a forum for ideas and opinions among middle-level educators. It is designed to further the understanding of intermediate education and the implementation of effective practices. The journal includes information on current trends and research as well as innovative ideas for the classroom. Each issue contains more than 15 articles on topics as varied as advisory programs, curriculum and instruction, portfolios, integrated studies, teacher certification, and family and community involvement.

Issues/price: 5 per year; $35 per year; $50 per year for members of National Middle School Association. Available from: National Middle School Association.

9.26 Muse

Level: Students, grades 1-8+ This richly illustrated, 52-page magazine for students ages 6 to 14 is from the publishers of Smithsonian magazine (see 9.50) and Cricket (a literary magazine for elementary school students). Muse brings the Smithsonian's many areas of interest to life for young readers through themes such as geography, architecture, biology, music, paleontology, physics, and theater. A sampling of topics includes space travel, travel to foreign countries, mummies, genetics, lasers, rainforests, computers, and ancient world history. The magazine presents long and short articles, photo essays, narratives, biographies, excerpts from letters and diaries, cartoons, jokes, and experiments.

Issues/price: 6 per year; $24 per year. Available from: Muse.

9.27 NASA Technology Today

Level: Teachers of grades 6-8+ NASA Technology Today is a resource for teachers on technology, science, and mathematics. It is published by Associated Business Publications International in cooperation with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) (see 11.66) and the International Technology Education Association. Articles focus on topics such as space exploration, software applications, design challenges, and the role of technology in public safety. Examples of featured subjects include technologies that enable pilots to detect and react to severe weather conditions, the adaptation of space simulation software by garment makers for designing apparel production lines, and how scientists are using data collected by NASA's Small Explorer Project to better understand the phenomenon of the northern and southern lights. Each colorfully illustrated article provides suggested student activities. The magazine also has regular sections on careers in the aerospace and aeronautical fields, aerospace spinoffs, and "techbits."

Issues/price: 6 per year; $17.95 per year. Available from: Associated Business Publications International.

9.28 National Geographic World

Level: Students, grades 3-8+; teachers A goal of National Geographic World is to instill curiosity about the world in young readers and to encourage geographic awareness. Each issue offers 5 or 6 nonfiction articles on science, geography, the environment, natural history, sports, and achievements of young people and adults. Articles are accompanied by excellent color photographs and illustrations, and children's art and writing are often included. The magazine features puzzles, maps, games, posters, hands-on projects, and contests to spark interest and encourage interactivity. National Geographic World is a useful teaching aid for a variety of curriculum goals.

Issues/price: 12 per year; $17.95 per year. Available from: National Geographic Society.

Suggested Citation:"9. Periodicals." 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.
×

9.29 National Wildlife

Teacher resource National Wildlife features in-depth nonfiction articles about nature, wildlife, and important environmental trends and issues. A representative sampling from an issue might include articles on dolphins, recycling, beavers, Alaskan grizzlies, and the effects of flooding in the Midwest. Articles are accompanied by excellent photographs. This magazine is useful for both teacher and student research on nature. It is a natural supplement to the classroom library.

Issues/price: 6 per year; $16 per year. Available from: National Wildlife Federation.

9.30 Natural History

Teacher resource Natural History is the monthly magazine of the American Museum of Natural History (see 10.287 and 10.288), an institution dedicated to understanding and preserving biological and cultural diversity. Reflecting this broad mission, the magazine's contents range widely—including features and news articles in various fields, such as paleontology, evolution, natural selection and species diversity, ecology and the environment, animal behavior, botany, astronomy, and anthropology. Some of the articles and regular columns focus on research, exhibits, and events at the museum. Also included are reviews of recent books, CD-ROMs, and Internet Web sites.

Issues/price: 12 per year; $30 per year. Available from: Natural History.

9.31 NOVA Teacher's Guide

Level: Students, grades 6-8+; teachers NOVA Teacher's Guide, published in conjunction with the Public Broadcasting System (PBS) series of NOVA educational science programs, helps teachers use the NOVA series with their classes. The guide includes 1-page lesson plans for many of the programs. Each lesson identifies a teaching focus and gives a brief program overview. The lesson plans suggest activities and discussions to conduct before and after viewing the NOVA programs. A reproducible student activity page accompanies each lesson to help students develop useful critical-thinking skills. (Teachers may tape NOVA programs for classroom use within 7 days of broadcast, or they may purchase videocassettes for $19.95 each.)

Issues/price: 2 per year; free. Available from: WGBH Boston.

9.32 Oceanus

Teacher resource Oceanus magazine is a semiannual report on research at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute (WHOI). Written by WHOI scientists and their colleagues, the 32-page publication includes full-color photographs and illustrations. Each issue provides several articles on a single theme, such as biodiversity, Atlantic Ocean circulation, or research in the Arctic. Middle school teachers will find this magazine a useful source of information on the environment of the oceans and marine resources.

Issues/price: 2 per year; $15 per year. Available from: WHOI Publication Services.

9.33 Odyssey

Level: Students, grades 4-8 Odyssey presents nonfiction information related to astronomy. Each issue focuses on a main theme, such as technology from the space program, the moon, or superstition and science. Regular features include "Activity to Discover" (suggestions for do-it-yourself activities related to the issue's featured topic), "Backyard Observations" (tips on astronomical occurrences children can watch for the month), "Future Forum" (children's written thoughts on a proposed subject of interest), and "Ask Ely" (a question-and-answer column). Odyssey is enhanced by color photographs and illustrations.

Issues/price: 9 per year; $26.95 per year. Available from: Cobblestone.

9.34 Popular Science

Level: Students, grades 7-8+; teachers Popular Science presents current news and features on research in science and technology and on new products resulting from such research. Examples of the topics covered in the magazine include WEBTV and how it works, testing the purity of drinking water, a potential design for a new space launcher, and the effectiveness of braking and traction control systems in automobiles. Popular Science also includes useful background information for middle school teachers and students on recent discoveries, such as signs of life on Mars as determined by fossils found in a meteorite in Antarctica.

Issues/price: 12 per year; $17.94 per year. Available from: Popular Science.

9.35 Quantum

Teacher resource Quantum, a magazine about mathematics and science, is published by the National Science Teachers Association (see 11.89) and the Quantum Bureau of the Russian Academy of Sciences in conjunction with the American Association of Physics Teachers (see 11.3) and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. It contains authorized

Suggested Citation:"9. Periodicals." 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.
×

English-language translations from Kvant, a physics and mathematics magazine of the Quantum Bureau, as well as original material in English. Kvant is noted for its serious—yet whimsical—approach. This approach is retained in Quantum, which engages readers in some of the breadth, wonder, and excitement of mathematics and the quantitative sciences.

Issues/price: 6 per year; $15 per year for students; $20 per year for nonstudents; $34 per year for institutions. Available from: Springer-Verlag New York.

9.36 Ranger Rick

Level: Students, grades 1-6 Ranger Rick helps students learn about animals and their habitats, about how to help endangered species, and about what other young people are doing to protect the environment. Each issue contains readable nonfiction text with excellent color photographs and drawings. Regular features include fictional stories about wildlife, "Dear Ranger Rick" (letters to the editor from students), puzzles, hands-on activities, and jokes and riddles.

Issues/price: 12 per year; $15 per year. Available from: National Wildlife Federation.

9.37 Science Activities

Level: Teachers of grades 1-8 Science Activities is a source of experiments, explorations, and projects for the classroom science teacher. Written by science educators, each issue contains a cross-section of activities for all ages, from the young child to the advanced high school student. Each issue focuses on a key theme, such as exploring the earth inside and out, natural science activities indoors and out, and ecology at the mall and in the classroom. A sampling of topics from Science Activities includes fun with fungi, science through drama, discovering wildlife, and electrical conductivity. Regular features include news notes, computer news, book reviews, and information about new products available to the classroom teacher.

Issues/price: 4 per year; $14.50 for single copy; $32.00 per year for individuals; $58.00 per year for institutions. Available from: Heldref.

9.38 Science & Children

Level: Teachers of grades PreK, K-8 Science & Children is a journal on teaching elementary and middle school science. It contains articles by educators for educators on how to teach specific science activities, as well as articles on more general aspects of science teaching, such as how to improve children's observational skills and reasoning abilities. Each article concludes with a list of topic-related resources. Regular features include "In the News" (science news items from around the country), "Teaching Teachers" (practical teaching methods for pre-service and in-service teachers), and reviews of newly available print and software resources.

Issues/price: 8 per year; $55 per year for members of National Science Teachers Association. Available from: National Science Teachers Association.

9.39 Science Books & Films

Level: Teachers of grades PreK, K-8+ Science Books & Films is produced by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (see 11.2) for science teachers, librarians, media specialists, curriculum supervisors, and others responsible for recommending or purchasing science materials. It provides critical reviews of the scientific accuracy and presentation of print, audiovisual, and electronic resources intended for use in science, technology, and mathematics education. Reviews include descriptions of the merits and demerits of a book or film and any accompanying supplements; the content, technical quality, and instructional value; the audience(s) for which the material is most appropriate and why; and how the material could be used for collateral reading or viewing, reference, or classroom use. Each issue includes a feature article, reviews by young readers, audiovisual notes about educational or professional materials and programs, an index of books and films, and a selection of the reviewers' favorite titles from that issue.

Issues/price: 9 per year; $40 per year. Available from: Science Books & Films.

9.40 Science Education

Teacher resource Science Education is an international journal of research. A "General" section presents descriptive articles and research reports that deal with areas such as science curricula and instructional programs, science tests and assessment instruments, and the history of science education. Another section—"Science Teacher Education"—focuses on empirical research studies related to the instruction and preparation of teachers in science; the organization and operation of science teacher education programs; and the effectiveness and effects of particular practices, procedures, and programs of teacher education in science. The section entitled "Learning" reports on empirical research studies and offers interpretative articles related to psychological

Suggested Citation:"9. Periodicals." 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.
×

aspects of learning science. In another section, "Issues and Trends," analytical, interpretative, and persuasive essays discuss current education, social, or philosophical issues and trends relevant to science teaching. The "International Science Education" section reports on comparative studies of science teaching across several countries, describing or interpreting science education programs and practices in countries other than the United States and Canada. Science Education also has a "Comments and Criticism" section.

Issues/price: 6 per year; $386 per year. Available from: John Wiley.

9.41 Science Is Elementary

Level: Teachers of grades K-6 Science Is Elementary is a resource magazine for teachers, produced by the Museum Institute for Teaching Science (see 11.64) to help further the teaching of science, mathematics, and technology through participatory, inquiry-based methods. Each issue focuses on a single theme—for example, color and light, toys and tools, or populations—and includes a variety of hands-on activities. Background information, extensions and integrations, and assessment suggestions are provided. Sections on "Book Looking" and "Knowledge Unbound" identify useful books, as well as audiovisual and other resources. "Good Things Cheap" lists free or inexpensive classroom materials, and "In the Know," "Trade Secrets," and "Doing Science" provide additional activities and background information.

Issues/price: 4 per year; $24 per year. Available from: Museum Institute for Teaching Science.

9.42 Science News

Level: Teachers of grades 6-8+ Though written primarily for scientists and university professors, Science News can be used by teachers at all levels to keep abreast of the latest developments in science, engineering, medicine, and mathematics. Each issue contains a lengthy article on a current subject of interest, such as the human genome, biodiversity, or erosion, as well as brief news items on such topics as biomedicine, chemistry, space science, and the environment.

Issues/price: Published weekly; $49.50 per year. Available from: Science Service.

9.43 Science Scope

Level: Teachers of grades 6-8 Written specifically for middle-level science teachers, Science Scope addresses the needs of both new and veteran teachers. Each issue presents nonfiction articles by science educators on the life, physical, and earth sciences and on science and society. The magazine provides science teachers with ideas for creative, well-designed, and safe hands-on activities and demonstrations. Each issue features "scoops" (news items on recent scientific discoveries or investigations); information on helpful science resources; short, practical, how-to tips on lessons and teaching methods; and a colorful science poster related to a key article in the issue.

Issues/price: 8 per year; $55 per year for members of National Science Teachers Association. Available from: National Science Teachers Association.

9.44 The Science Teacher

Level: Teachers of grades 7-8+ The Science Teacher provides nonfiction articles by science educators on innovations in science teaching, current developments in science, and classroom projects and experiments. Each issue contains brief news items on recent scientific discoveries, an idea bank of hands-on activities, and reviews of books and software relevant to teaching science. Though targeted for high school teachers, librarians, principals, and supervisors, this magazine is a useful source of background information for middle school science teachers as well.

Issues/price: 9 per year; $56 per year for members of National Science Teachers Association. Available from: National Science Teachers Association.

9.45 The Science Times

Level: Teachers of grades 5-7 (elementary edition) and grades 8+ (junior secondary edition) The Science Times consists of short articles summarizing science stories from the news that involve life science, physical science, technology, and the environment. The magazine provides quizzes, word searches, crosswords, and discussion questions to use with students. The Science Times is available in 3 editions—elementary, junior secondary, and senior secondary. When placing an order, teachers choose the edition that best suits their needs. Topics and activities are similar in all the editions but are adjusted for age level and reading ability.

Issues/price: 10 per year; $50 per year for elementary edition; $50 per year for junior secondary edition. Available from: ZED Consulting.

Suggested Citation:"9. Periodicals." 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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9.46 Science World

Level: Students, grades 6-8+; teachers Each issue of Science World , a magazine for students, explores 3 major areas of the science curriculum—life science/health, earth science/astronomy, and physical science/technology. Topics in these areas are approached by way of the scientific principles involved in occurrences ranging from high-interest news events and to everyday activities. The teacher's edition includes an 8-page guide with lesson plans and activities.

Issues/price: 18 per year; $7.50 per year (with a minimum of 10 subscriptions). Available from: Scholastic.

9.47 Scientific American

Teacher resource This monthly journal features articles on a variety of scientific topics and research trends. Examples include brain-scanning technologies, microchips that can modify their own hardwired circuits as they run, trends in animal research, biological weapons, global climate change on Mars, and microbes deep inside the earth. In addition to feature articles, Scientific American includes regular sections of "News and Analysis" and "Reviews and Commentaries." The former includes articles on new discoveries, science and the citizen, profiles of scientists and their work, and angles on cyperspace. The latter presents book reviews and commentaries, including, in each December issue, the Scientific American Young Readers Book Awards for the year's best children's science books. On occasion, an entire issue is devoted to a single topic.

Issues/price: 12 per year; $36 per year. Available from: Scientific American.

9.48 Scientific American Frontiers

Level: Teachers of grades 7-8+ Scientific American Frontiers is a teacher's guide published in connection with the Public Broadcasting System (PBS) series by the same name. The monthly PBS series tracks stories on technology, medicine, biology, physics, geology, and chemistry. The 15-page teacher's guide helps educators use the television series in the classroom. Lessons focus on science concepts presented in the program, and may include hands-on activities and games, as well as interactive options and resources on the Internet (such as e-mailing questions to scientists) and curriculum links. Videotapes of past shows are available for purchase. Educators may photocopy materials from the guides for classroom use.

Issues/price: 5 per year; free. Available from: Scientific American Frontiers School Program.

9.49 Sky and Telescope

Level: Teachers of grades 6-8+ Sky and Telescope features a variety of news and feature stories on astronomy and space science. Its 3 sections—"Features," "Departments," and "Columns"—include (1) articles by leading professionals on topics such as the exploration of Mars and a solar theory to explain global warming; (2) stories on activities of amateur astronomers, reviews of books and films, descriptions of new products such as binoculars and telescopes, and current sky events; and (3) other interesting tidbits and background information, such as reviews of Web sites and updates on the space program.

Issues/price: 12 per year; $36 per year. Available from: Sky and Telescope.

9.50 Smithsonian

Teacher resource Smithsonian magazine reflects the diversity of the sciences, humanities, and arts featured in the Smithsonian museums. It also draws upon research performed by museum staff. Each issue presents 8 extensive, richly illustrated feature articles. Examples of the science-related topics addressed in these features include toxins in food, the use of connoisseurship and science to recognize authentic Rembrandt paintings, and experiments in the language and behavior of orangutans. Among the regular departments in the magazine are the commentary by the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution; highlights of Smithsonian exhibits, activities, and events; and book reviews.

Issues/price: 12 per year; $24 per year for Smithsonian Associates. Available from: Smithsonian Institution.

9.51 StarDate

Level: Students, grades 7-8+; teachers StarDate is an astronomy magazine published by the McDonald Observatory Public Information Office, University of Texas at Austin. Astronomy news, features, and history are presented with full-color illustrations and photographs. StarDate also includes star charts; a solar system "orrery" showing the positions of planets each month; and a step-by-step observing calendar highlighting eclipses, meteor showers, and other events.

Issues/price: 6 per year; $18 per year. Available from: StarDate.

Suggested Citation:"9. Periodicals." 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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9.52 SuperScience Blue

Level: Students, grades 4-6 SuperScience Blue provides science material that fits into all areas of the curriculum and helps students see the science connections around them. Containing in-depth nonfiction articles and related hands-on activities, each issue explores one key topic, such as hurricanes, endangered animals, or the physics and chemistry of construction. Accompanying each issue (at additional cost) is a teacher's guide, SuperScience Blue Teacher, outlining article topics, related curriculum areas, relevant process skills, learning objectives, general background, suggestions on introducing subject matter, questions for discussion, and lab tips. A resource section cites related books for teachers and children. Regular features of SuperScience Blue include an "Ask the Experts" question-and-answer column, a "We Dare You" problem-solving challenge, and a colorful, instructive, foldout poster relating to the issue topic.

Issues/price: 8 per year; $5.95 per year for magazine only (free teacher's guide comes with 10 or more magazine subscriptions); $27.80 per year for teacher's guide and 1 student subscription. Available from: Scholastic.

9.53 3-2-1 Contact

Level: Students, grades 3-8 3-2-1 Contact explores nature, science, and technology through short nonfiction articles accompanied by lively, colorful photographs and drawings. Examples of topics covered include animal-tracking satellites, the world of snowboarders, peculiar pets, and a journey through a rainforest. Each issue also provides games, puzzles, contests, and suggestions for hands-on activities. Regular features include "News Blasts" (brief items about enjoyable or exciting science stories), thought-provoking questions and answers, reviews of video and computer games, "Future File" (about scientific developments coming our way), and "Basic Training" (a set of hands-on computer instructions challenging students to solve a particular problem).

Issues/price: 10 per year; $19.90 per year. Available from: 3-2-1 Contact Magazine.

9.54 Weatherwise

Teacher resource Weatherwise is published by the Helen Dwight Reid Educational Foundation in association with the American Meteorological Society (see 11.14). This magazine includes well-illustrated articles on topics such as radar images of the internal structure and motion of clouds, the costliest thunderstorm in the history of the United States, and photographing tornadoes. Regular departments include "Front and Center" (on people, places, and projects); "Weather Queries" (answers to questions posed by readers); "Reviews and Resources" (reviews of books, videos, and other resources); and "Weatherwatch" (monthly maps and a discussion of each month's weather).

Issues/price: 6 per year; $9.75 per issue; $29.00 per year for individuals; $58.00 per year for institutions. Available from: Heldref.

9.55 WonderScience

Level: Students, grades 6-7; teachers Wonder Science is published as a joint effort of the American Chemical Society (see 11.7) and the American Institute of Physics (see 11.13). Each issue focuses on a particular topic, such as optical illusions, weather measurements, magnifiers, or physics on the playground. Several hands-on activities related to this topic are included. Each activity is accompanied by a list of the materials needed and step-by-step instructions for teachers and students to follow. A 4-page teacher's guide with reproducible student work sheets is available for each issue.

Issues/price: 8 per year (4 issues each in October and January); $9.50 per year (teacher's guide with orders of 2 or more subscriptions). Available from: American Chemical Society.

9.56 Your World/Our World

Level: Students, grades 7-8+; teachers Your World/Our World is a semiannual magazine of biotechnology applications in health care, agriculture, the environment, and industry. Designed to capture student interest and to explain difficult information in an easily understandable way, articles begin with basic information and slowly progress to clearly defined, more complex issues. Laboratory activities are provided. Feature articles include photographs of actual processes and structures related to the subject matter. Each issue is accompanied by a teacher's guide.

Issues/price: 2 per year; $13 per year. Available from: Pennsylvania Biotechnology Association.

Suggested Citation:"9. Periodicals." 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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Next: PART 4. ANCILLARY RESOURCES »
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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