This article introduces and contextualizes the content of this theme issue of "The American Biology Teacher" (ABT), which focuses on integrating elements of the history of science (HOS) in biology instruction. Such orientations can enhance students' understanding of core biological concepts and the process of scientific discovery by…

A look back at some famous discoveries in biology highlights the competitive nature of science, the trophy being priority by publication.

A mention of "The Fungus Fighters: Two Women Scientists and Their Discovery" by Richard Baldwin and discovery of a huge fungus of the species Armillaria bulbosa and A. ostoyae are presented. Other aspects like fungal infections and shifting relationships are discussed.

Describes methods of organizing an interdisciplinary program designed to study the techniques of finding out" used in science, literature, language, humanities and the arts. Suggests possible topics that might serve as subjects for seminars and provides references that could support such studies. (AL)

Presents the story of the accidental invention of the Wardian case, or terrarium, by Nathaniel Bagshaw Ward. Advocates the use of this story in teaching precollege biology as an illustration of how a chance event can lead to a major scientific advancement and as an example of the common occurrence of multiple discovery in botany. Contains 34…

Discussed is the tendency in science to challenge obvious explanation for observed phenomenon. Ten examples are given where the initial obvious explanation was subsequently shown to be totally incorrect. Four examples that relate to biomedicine are presented in detail. (SL)

Examples from research that incorporate plants to illustrate biological principles are presented. Topics include dried pea shape, homeotic genes, gene transcription in plants that are touched or wounded, production of grasslands, seaweed defenses, migrating plants, camouflage, and family rivalry. (KR)