A survey of adults that shows considerable misunderstanding of two major ideas--that there is no energy in fuels and burning involves two stages--is discussed. Proposed are fundamental changes in the way ideas about burning are introduced to children. (KR)

An investigation of students understandings of acids and bases using concept maps, multiple-choice tests, and clinical interviews is described. The methodology and resulting analysis are illustrated with two abbreviated case studies selected from the study. Discussion of concept mapping points to how it starkly represents gaps in the understanding…

Honest errors appearing in textbooks, articles, and instructor-generated assignments are used as meaningful vehicles of instruction. Missing information, corrected printing errors, deliberate errors, and difficult written passages are discussed as sources of errors. How to use errors in assignments, classroom examples, examination questions, and…

A set of educational materials that have been developed which deal with chemical engineering applications in emerging technologies is described. The organization and the content of the supplemental textbook materials and how they can be integrated into an undergraduate reaction engineering course are discussed. (KR)

A demonstration used in a heat and material balances class that explains how a reusable heat pack works is described. An initial homework problem or exam question is provided with its solution. A discussion of the solution is included. (KR)

To prepare new international graduate students for assignments as teaching assistants, the University of Washington chemistry department worked with specialists in language, pedagogy, and chemistry to design a discipline-specific training program. The program's structure, participants, benefits and limitations, and effectiveness in its first year…

Presents activities that utilize balloons to encourage students to explore questions related to scientific concepts. Concepts explored include light, heat, charged ions, polarization, and the sense of smell. (MDH)

Research concerning the role of stratospheric ozone and the effect of chlorofluorocarbons on stratospheric ozone are discussed. The consequences of global ozone depletion are projected. The Montreal Protocol is reviewed. (CW)

The implementation and results of the use of videotapes in introductory biochemical engineering classes are discussed. The topics of the videotapes and the results of a questionnaire about this instructional method are presented. (CW)

Announced is an approval service for associate degree programs in chemical technology at two-year colleges. Features of the program and ways that institutions may become involved in the program are discussed. (CW)

Describes using the course question: "How does chemistry (or biology) impact my personal life and society?" This course question is presented to students and forms the basis of the final exam. Students evaluate a current-events article using the question as a framework. Students explore the relationship between chemistry (or biology) and their…

Describes the use of practice weighings and handling of fluorescent compounds to assist in teaching students safe-handling techniques. (PR)

The history of atomic theory is outlined from earliest times up to the orbital model and describes a corresponding teaching method. The historical part of the paper emphasizes social and philosophical aspects in the development of atomic theory. The second part of the paper describes a method for teaching this material at the secondary level.…

Describes concrete demonstrations on the states of matter. In the first demonstration, students represent molecules; and, in the second demonstration, moth balls are heated to produce a change of state. (PR)

Describes a science project in which students make models of polymers using polyvinyl alcohol solution. Students make T-shirts using polymer paint to remind them of their activities. (MDH)