Introduces sequoias, the largest tree species, and describes the importance of fires in sequoias' successful reproduction and management of the sequoia ecosystem. (Contains 23 references.) (YDS)

The food preservative sorbic acid can be extracted from Eurasian mountain ash berries (commercially available) and used to show antifungal properties in microbiological investigations. Techniques for extraction, purification, ultraviolet analysis, and experiments displaying antifungal activity are described. A systematic search for similar…

Describes an activity (suitable for high school or college) in which the effects of competition in the structuring of ecological communities are examined. The exercise also offers an introduction into species diversity; more advanced classes may be encouraged to seek reasons for differences in insect diversity on different trees. (Author/JN)

Samara (winged seeds from maple and ash trees) can be used for open-ended inquiry or a series of directed science activities. Attributes, observations/inferences, drawing, motion, floating, seed structure, creative design, and measurement are some of the suggestions for classroom use of these seeds. (DH)

Provided in this document are descriptions of reforestation projects and techniques presented by Peace Corps volunteers from Chad, Ivory Coast, Upper Volta, and Niger. The purpose of the document is to aid individuals in trying to find solutions to the problems facing forestry in the Sahel. These projects include: (1) reforestation of Ronier palm…

Provides an outline of a presentation which focused on teaching science environmentally and extending the teaching outdoors. Includes a discussion of the sumac as a typical topic to illustrate the ideas and strategies cited. (BC)

Described is the Rapid Assessment Program (RAP) in which a team of tropical biologists are able to get to remote, uncharted sites in the tropics and conduct surveys very quickly. The team uses satellite imagery, aerial reconnaissance, and field surveys to produce an inventory of species found in these areas. (KR)

Describes: basic features of pollen grains (shapes, apertures, layering of wall, exine sculpturing); strategies for pollination (anemophily--wind transported, zoophily--animal transported); and the structures specialized for each process. Gives instructions for using scanning electron microscope photographs and for collecting, identifying, and…

Describes a procedure for starting tree cuttings from woody plants, explaining "lag time," recommending materials, and giving step-by-step instructions for rooting and planting. Points out species which are likely candidates for cuttings and provides tips for teachers for developing a unit. (JM)

Two exercises on the dispersal of tree seeds by the wind are presented. Procedures, equipment, and analysis for the still air and wind dispersal activities are described. Nineteen references are listed. (CW)

Strategies for using trees in classroom instruction are provided. Includes: (1) activities (such as tree identification, mapping, measuring tree height/width); (2) list of asthetic, architectural, engineering, climate, and wildlife functions of trees; (3) tree discussion questions; and (4) references. (JN)

Tree-ring analysis in geomorphology can be incorporated into a number of undergraduate methods in order to reconstruct the history of a variety of geomorphic processes. Discusses dendrochronology, general principles of dendrogeomorphology, field sampling methods, laboratory techniques, and examples of applications. (TW)

Proposes that leaf yeast serve as quick, inexpensive, and effective techniques for monitoring air quality. Outlines procedures and provides suggestions for data analysis. Includes results from sample school groups who employed this technique. (ML)

Suggesting advantages of using forests to teach succession, briefly outlines procedures for gathering evidence of succession including numbers, ages, and sizes of trees. Five plot studies conducted by students at the University of Victoria are also described. (DC)

Discusses the importance of urban forests and the urban forestry (arboculture) career study certificate program at Blue Ridge Community College in Virginia, which begins in fall 2002. (Contains 19 references.) (NB)