A spreadsheet-based exercise for students is described in which they are challenged to explain and reproduce the disparate temperature dependencies of the heat capacities of gaseous F[subscript 2] and N[subscript 2]. For F[subscript 2], C[subscript p,m] increases from 300 K, reaches a maximum at 2200 K, and then decreases to 74% of the maximum…

We developed an interactive laboratory that allows students to identify and grade tissue samples from human breast biopsies, using techniques similar to those used by actual pathologists. This unique lab develops a practical and intellectual understanding of basic tissue structures that make up living systems, utilizing technology to bring…

This story is a chemical mystery with an emphasis on qualitative analysis, descriptive chemistry, and forensics. It is as well yet another article in the continuing series, first presented by Thomas Waddell and Thomas R. Rybolt, which presents a scientific problem in mystery format in the context of the popular and beloved characters of Sherlock…

"If protons, quarks, and other elementary particles are too small to be seen, how do scientists know they exist? And if these particles do exist, how can one estimate their size, structure, and or their arrangement in atoms?" These are some of the most frequently asked questions by students who study atomic theory. Atomic structure is an important…

This textbook is a reader with selections in natural philosophy, botany, and natural history. Readings include poetry and prose. Written exercises are provided.

We developed a course in inquiry-based science for students training to become primary school teachers. The emphasis of the course was teaching students to do inquiry-based science activities themselves, as this is the best way of learning how to teach using inquiry-based methods. (Contains 1 table.)

Exploratorium Magazine communicates ideas that exhibits cannot easily demonstrate, extending the museum beyond its physical walls. This issue takes an in-depth look at the science and history of paper. Topics include: (1) Fascinating Facts about Paper; (2) A Closer Look at the Paper in This Magazine; (3) Handmade Paper; (4) Paper Airplanes; (5)…

This educator guide provides background information on Wilbur and Orville Wright. It also presents activities on aeronautics that provide templates for building the 1900, 1901, and 1902 Gliders and the 1903 Flyer. Activities include: (1) Early Aviation; (2) Your First Interview; (3) Your First Report; (4) Build a Model of the 1900 Glider; (5)…

Describes an activity in which students can investigate and evaluate the amount of iron found in most fortified breakfast cereals or cream of wheat. Includes a list of necessary materials, safety precautions, experimental procedure, disposal protocol, and nutritional explanation, utilization, and variations. (JJK)

Provides coverage of 1987 American Chemical Society's (ACS) public celebration in schools and communities nationwide. Covers the wide variety of activities that were held. Lists important organizations and personalities that were involved. Suggests how to inform the local ACS office of local activities that were held. (CW)

This book contains 45 activities suitable for use in secondary science and social studies classes. Except for the first four activities, which are quick attention getters, all the activities are presented in a standard format. Each begins with an introduction, that provides a brief overview of the activity's content and the teaching strategies…

Presents a simple, graphical method for tracking the apparent motion of the Moon through a seven-day phase. Describes the necessary equipment, and the daily procedure for making observations. Includes suggested open-ended questions along with an appropriate reference. (JJK)

The case-based study, which presents students with a dilemma that encourages exploration, is becoming a popular method for teaching biology. This Web-based report offers one such case study that asks readers to solve problems and make decisions based on information gathered as they engage with characters or situations in the story. The basis for…

This article is a reproducible page for students in grades four through six. The stated objective is the student will organize information about unfamiliar animals and infer other information. Students read clues about five newly discovered species and use a chart to organize this information in a more meaningful way. (PR)

Various learning activities in language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science are presented, using the theme of favorite foods. Sample activities include thinking of similes and metaphors related to food, calculating calories eaten in a day, and listing foods associated with specific countries. (JDD)