In this research, we examined the effect of the prediction-observation-explanation (POE) method on learning of image formation by a plane mirror and pre-service teachers’ opinions. Twenty pre-service science teachers studying at first grade in the Department of Science Education in Turkey participated in the research. We used a one group pretest–posttest design. In the teaching process, carried out in accordance with the POE method, the pre-service teachers made their own plane mirror by using glass and mirror-effect spray paint, and then analyzed the image of a cube by using these mirrors. We analyzed the data by using the SPSS software and content analysis. As a result of the research, we found that the POE method is effective in the learning of image formation by a plane mirror. Thirteen (65%) pre-service teachers expressed only positive opinions about making a plane mirror by using glass and mirror-effect spray paint; seven (35%) pre-service teachers expressed both positive and negative opinions. The entertaining production process (learning by practicing that mirrors can be made from glass) and gaining experience (like preparing material, learning, and implementing safety rules) were the most common positive opinions, although the irritating smell of the spray paint was the most common negative opinion. Seventeen (85%) pre-service teachers expressed positive opinions and three (15%) pre-service teachers expressed both positive and negative opinions on the organized activity in accordance with the POE method. In consideration of the obtained positive and negative opinions, we found teachers could do such activities to provide a better learning environment.

In this research, it was aimed to determine science students’ awareness of waste management. Eleven students studying in the first year of the Science Education Department participated in the research. The screening model was used in the research. The data were collected through scientific newspapers prepared in line with the Scientific Newspaper Preparation Instruction within the Scope of Waste Management. In the five sections of the instruction, students were asked to prepare scientific newspapers that they will support with written explanations and drawings on recovery, reuse, recycling, plastic bag usage, and zero waste within waste management. The data were analyzed by using content analysis. As a result of the research, it was understood that a significant part of the students was aware of the effects of education, research, and project activities on recovery, reuse, recycling, plastic bag usage, and zero waste practices within the scope of waste management, and the place and importance of the individual in waste management. On the other hand, it was understood that most of the students were not aware of the basis of waste management practices as the waste types, the separation of wastes at the source in accordance to their types, and throwing the wastes into the appropriate waste bin for their types.

Healthy nutrition is essential in preventing possible diseases and treating existing diseases by controlling their course. Based on this importance, adolescence is one of the periods to be considered. Adolescence is a fundamental determinant of healthy life in adulthood and old age. Healthy nutrition awareness gained in this period will raise awareness of the adolescent individual herself/himself and the people around her/him. This research aimed to determine the nutrition awareness of middle school students in early adolescence. According to the phenomenology, the research was conducted with eight volunteer students in the 8th grade in a public middle school in the Central Anatolia region in Turkey. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with each student individually using the "Interview Form about Nutrition Awareness in Adolescence Period" prepared by the researchers. The data were analyzed by using content analysis. As a result of the research, it was determined that the nutrition awareness of middle school students in the early adolescence period was low. In this context, increasing middle school students' nutrition awareness was recommended.