The present study investigated the effects of an online learning environment supported with worked examples and peer feedback on students' argumentative essay writing and domain-specific knowledge acquisition in the field of biotechnology. As part of a bigger project, a pre- and post-test study design was used with 45 bachelor students who were…

A causal explanation in biology focuses on the mechanism by which a biological process is brought about, whereas a teleological explanation considers the end result, in the context of the survival of the organism, as a reason for certain biological processes or structures. There is a tendency among students to offer a teleological explanation…

Describes a demonstration designed to help students better understand the response of plant and animal cells to hypotonic solutions. The demonstration uses a balloon inside a flexible, thin-walled cardboard box. Air going in corresponds to water entering by osmosis, and, like real cells, if stretched enough, the balloon will burst. (DH)

Describes how self-constructed models of the male and female reproductive systems are used to simulate sexual intercourse and the actions of contraceptive devices in preventing conception and sexually transmitted diseases. (Author/YDS)

A cheap and simple model that can be made and used by pupils to study the human breathing mechanism is presented. A list of needed materials, procedures for construction, possible refinements, and method of use are included. (KR)

Explains how simple models of easily assembled materials can help teach the workings of human joints. Provides specific suggestions for demonstrating the structure and operation of fixed joints, slightly movable joints, and freely movable joints. (ML)

Features of a biology demonstration laboratory designed to handle large number of students and provide opportunities for using materials including live specimens for practical work are described. The design of the demonstration laboratory is given. (PS)

A laboratory demonstration is suggested for the formation of a-amylase enzyme in halved grains of barley. Data presented in the article provide some information of the pattern of a- and b-amylase activity during germination. (PS)

Examines problems of dissecting fresh animal lungs (one activity of the "My Body" health education program), considering availability/cost, safety, teacher knowledge, and possible objections from anti-dissection groups. Solutions are offered and suggestions made for making the exercise a teacher demonstration rather than a student activity. (DH)

Presents an outline of current knowledge relating to the response of radicles to a directional source of water (hydrotropism). New techniques are described that may be used in biology classes to demonstrate the hydrotropic response in plants. (JR)

Offers suggestions for teaching some aspects of water economy in plants. These include diffusion/osmosis, water transport, the part played by turgor in structural support, and its implications for plant organs or whole plants. Several practical demonstrations/experiments are also described. (JN)

In this paper we present a simple set-up that illustrates the mechanism of sap ascent in plants and demonstrates that it can easily draw water up to heights of a few meters. The set-up consists of a tube with the lower end submerged in water and the upper one connected to a filter supported by a standard filter-holder. The evaporation of water…