The book states that AIMS attempts to provide curriculum materials that are user friendly, educationally sound, and developmentally appropriate while also aligned with recommendations found in the national educational reform documents. Twenty four activities, dealing with cycles of change such as growth, decomposition, and seasons, are found in the book. Each activity lists the key questions, corresponding standards, and integrated disciplines as well as the procedures and materials. In one activity students investigate how butterflies and moths change as they go through their life cycle. The teachers are given background information about metamorphosis and classroom management tips.
Students use big books and journals to record observations and predictions.
They discuss the changes that they observed and produce a film strip as a culminating activity. As an extension, the book suggests that students study the life cycles of other organisms such as tadpoles, mealworms, or silkworms. Tables elaborate how the Project 2061 Benchmarks for Science Literacy, National Science Education Standards, and the Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics are met. Reproducible handouts are found throughout the book. A bibliography is included.