Described is a teaching method for chemistry that gives college students practice in experimental design. Students are given a problem and required to design a procedure to solve the problem. Problems increase in complexity as the students progress through the courses. (RH)

Describes a project-type experiment in which students each try to find the color indicator present in a particular flower. The philosophy of conducting such an experiment and procedures used are included. (JN)

The effects of temperature and pressure on the collapsing of soda cans are discussed. The use of various temperatures and substances for the cooling bath are described. (KR)

Alternatives to the traditional unknown tests that permit a clear and unequivocal differential identification decision between Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus megaterium are presented. Plates of Phenylethyl Alcohol agar with Blood (PEAB), slants of Bile Esculin agar and plates of DNA agar are used. The materials, methods, results, and conclusions…

Reported the development and validation of an integrated model of performance on chemical concept-volumetric analysis. Model was tested on 265 chemistry students in eight schools.Results indicated that for subjects using algorithms without understanding, performance on volumetric analysis problems was not influenced by proportional reasoning…

Described is a laboratory experiment designed to expose students to problem-solving methods individually and as a group. Included are background information, a list of materials, laboratory procedures, analysis methods, and probable results. (CW)

Discusses a research project of testing detergents that resulted from students' classroom observations of and questions about water pollution and suds. Outlines procedures and responsibilities necessary for conducting the experiment. A sample student data sheet is included. (RT)

Prescriptions for improving student understanding and problem-solving performance related to transmission genetics are discussed. Research on novice/expert problem-solving in transmission genetics is reviewed. (Author/CW)

An activity in which students design and build an apparatus that can be used to rapidly determine the specific gravities of small substances is described. Calculations needed to determine the density of substances when using the Jolly balance are included. (KR)

Definitions for the terms open-ended, problem solving, and investigations are considered. The interaction between these terms and teaching styles are discussed. Student influences over the learning process in this type of investigation are examined. (CW)

Discusses how problem-solving networks can be incorporated into courses. Reports on the development of a new style of pictorial network that can assist students in the handling of experimental data. (CW)

Criticizes the way organic chemistry teaching laboratory experiments are approached from the viewpoint of physical chemistry. Compares these experiments to cooking. Stresses that what matters is not the practice of the finger skills of organic chemistry but practice in the style of thinking of organic chemists. (CW)

Reviews research on the purpose and effectiveness of laboratory activities. Discusses epistemology, problem solving, cooperative learning, student involvement, assessment, and teachers as researchers. (YP)

Described is an interdisciplinary unit on pseudoscience which combines interest in unidentified flying objects (UFO's), physics, astronomy, art, and english composition. The different phases of the lesson, assignments, and evaluation are discussed. A list of books available on UFOs is provided. (CW)

The use of computer spreadsheet programs in the physics laboratory is discussed. An example of this application with a conservation of energy laboratory is presented including the cases of a rolling sphere and a sliding sphere. (CW)