Symmetry properties of molecules are generally introduced in second-year or third-year-level inorganic or physical chemistry courses. Students generally adapt readily to understanding and applying the operations of rotation (C[subscript n]), reflection (s), and inversion (i). However, the two-step operation of improper rotation-reflection…

Organic chemistry problems that interrelate and integrate synthesis with spectroscopy are presented. These synthesis-spectroscopy roadmap (SSR) problems uniquely engage second-year undergraduate organic chemistry students in the personal discovery of organic chemistry. SSR problems counter the memorize-or-bust strategy that many students tend to…

Describes an open-ended, inquiry-based chemistry lab in which students design and construct snow globes. Encourages the development of problem solving skills. (DDR)

Describes how infants of six to seven years old can learn floating and sinking. The work described in this article was inspired by the Elementary Science Study (ESS). (HM)

This curriculum guide, part of a series of science units, stresses concept-learning through the discovery approach and child-centered activities. It is intended that the unit will be studied in depth by grades 3, 4, 5, and 6. Kindergarten pupils will study the unit in less detail. "Our Useful Rocks" is studied in the kindergarten,…

Examines the problem of determining the minimum center of mass for a can with a varying height of liquid in it. Uses PC SOLVE computer software to graphically represent the problem situation. (MDH)

This curriculum guide, part of a series of science units, provides for differentiation of emphasis of subject areas at different grade levels. It is intended that the unit will be studied in depth by grades 1, 4, and 6. Kindergarten, grades 2 and 3 will study the unit in less detail. "Our Wonderful Sun" is studied in Kindergarten, "Earth in Space"…

Discussed is the teaching method called the learning cycle and how it can be incorporated into science activities. Included are examples of how teachers and students can use the learning cycle to produce instructional materials. (KR)

Describes Socratic Dialogue Inducing (SDI) laboratory methods and procedures developed to increase conceptual understanding in introductory physics laboratories. Gives an example of a typical beginning SDI lab manual section and a representative Socratic dialogue. Describes several examples of laboratory experiments developed for the SDI method.…

Describes the construction of durable, inexpensive and large sand-hourglasses for use in controlled experiments that allow students to observe, infer, measure, record data, and predict. This hands-on activity is designed to take place over a three-day interval. Includes materials needed, techniques, procedures, follow-up activities, and resource…

Presents four stoichiometric problems and their solutions that use spot metal prices quoted from the newspaper to integrate economics and chemistry. (MDH)

A primary science program was developed over a 2-year period at a Montessori school. The program is intended to encourage creative but logical thought and active participation by the child in learning "hows" and "whys." It teaches the mathematical operations (measurement and comparative notation) necessary to know what to do with scientific…

Discusses the need to teach problem-solving skills in science. Differentiates between guided discovery, guided inquiry, guided exploration, and guided investigation. Describes how guided exploration evolved and how it can be applied to the science curriculum. Provides a flowchart for guided investigation. (TW)

Discusses a unit to teach reasoning and problem solving skills by helping students develop a systematic approach to problem identification, gather and analyze data, arrive at inferences and keep from jumping to conclusions. Describes the development of an activity investigating liquids designed to foster the needed problem-solving skills. (JM)