Plantwatch is an international program in which observers note the spring flowering times of key indicator plants and report them on the Internet. Steps are outlined for teachers who wish to involve their classes in Plantwatch. Tips are offered for teaching younger and older students about phenology (the study of periodic biological events related…

Teasel, prized by dried-flower arrangers for the distinctive beauty of its flower spike, is a conspicuous weed along roadsides and fencerows during autumn and winter months. Describes the history of the weed, physical characteristics and uses. (Author/ERB)

Background information on the methods and varieties used to demonstrate the cultivation of plants without the use of chemical pesticides is provided. Discussed are species and variety selection, growing plants from seed and from seedlings, soil preparation, using cuttings, useful crops, and pest control. (CW)

This hands-on science unit includes a beginners' and an advanced activity involving tree sap, as well as a brief description of a maple sap harvest. (CB)

Presented is one of a series of articles designed to help science teachers keep current on ideas in specific areas of biology. This article provides information about ion transport in plant cells. (PB)

The use of toluidine blue as a stain for plant tissues is advocated. Directions for hand-cut tissue staining are provided. (PEB)

This document is a guide for older persons who are beginner gardeners. It provides 16 projects to choose from and explains what is needed for each before getting started. Each chapter contains projects suitable for small, medium, and large garden spaces. Contents include: (1) "Getting Started"; (2) "Beckoning Birds, Bees, and Butterflies"; (3)…

This book provides a short course in the mysteries of seed structure, function, and development. Chapter 1, "Backgrounds, Hints, And Tips For Teachers And Parents," provides a basis for working with the mid-years student. Chapater 2, "Where Do I Start? What Do I Do?" provides procedural tips for science research. Chapter 3,…

Lakes and wetlands make up that part of Kentucky's water bodies commonly referred to as standing waters. These waters serve many purposes for the people of the state and are necessary and valued elements of its natural resources. This field guide was designed to provide useful background information and reference material for the study of these…

Presented is one of a series of articles designed to help science teachers keep current on ideas in specific areas in biology. Contained is information on how plants use light for growth, seed germination, and flowering. (PB)

This field guide was especially developed for Water Watch--a public participation program in Kentucky that encourages citizens to adopt a stream, lake or wetland, and then gain hands-on experience in protecting and enhancing their adopted water resources. Understanding the relationships between life and the environment helps people to appreciate…

This compendium deals with the ecology and economic importance of the poplars, willows, hickories, birches, beeches, oaks, elms, nettles, sorrels, docks, and smartweeds growing in New York's Catskills. Provided are keys for identifying each plant to species by flowers, foliage, or winter buds. A line drawing accompanies a summary of basic data…

Materials and methods for studying the functioning and responses of stomatal guard cells are described. (PB)

Described is the generative learning strategy, an approach which encourages pupils to discuss their out-of-school ideas about plant breathing, drinking, wood production, soil, minerals, and leaves, and assist them in linking appropriate ideas together to form an explanation of the origin of plant materials. (CW)

This document consists of the two issues of this newsletter published during 1994. Issues contain articles and employment notices of interest to Montessori teachers and school administrators. Feature articles include: (1) "Meaningful In-Service Comes from Within Our Own School" (Anne Blickenstaff and Nancy Hildick), which discusses one…