Presented are the findings of a naturalistic case study of science teacher thinking. The role of personal practical theories and curricular and instructional decisions is discussed. Suggested implications of understanding personal theorizing of science teachers and science teacher educators are included. (KR)

Discussed are the results of a test administered to nonmajor biology students on the topic of natural selection. The description of student conceptions, effects of instruction, and the effects of a belief in evolution are included. (KR)

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of three instructional methods and conceptual systems orientation on achievement in a freshman general chemistry laboratory course. Traditional approach, learning cycle, and computer simulations are discussed. (KR)

A phenomenological explanation of this effect is provided. Suggestions for the inclusion of pyroelectric effects into a unit on electrostatics are given. (CW)

Detailed are the construction of a demonstration car, apparatus and procedures used in the demonstration, and the analysis of the effects of car braking. The cases of rear-wheel and front-wheel braking are considered. (CW)

Surveyed 232 college students in an introductory biology course on their attitudes and perceptions on aspects of biology that they should have covered in high school science. Results indicated majority of students felt very or somewhat familiar with the topics covered in the survey. A sizable majority of students were only somewhat familiar with…

Describes using a local college for the teaching of the recommended Advance Placement laboratories as a way to increase greatly needed course time and to increase the amount of equipment available. (PR)

Describes exercises to examine the global carbon cycle. Students are asked to predict consequences of increased carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere and to suggest ways to mitigate problems associated with these higher levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide. A comparison modeling exercise examines some of the variables related to the success…

Presents a laboratory experiment designed to help students understand the concept of diastolic blood pressure, the pressure during which the left ventricle of the heart is not contracting. Examines the effect of strenuous exercise on blood pressure. Includes materials needed, procedures, results, and discussion of the results. (MDH)

Presents a series of exercises to help students understand the importance of the limits of taxonomic keys and to identify the appropriate levels. Introductory activities include having students classify screws, "gummy bears," and beans. (PR)

Considers topics about cell function often misunderstood, misrepresented, or omitted from biology textbooks: enzyme catalyzed reactions; RNA as a catalyst; protein levels in cells; amino acids; organic acids; glucose and fructose; gluconeogenesis; fatty acids and ketone bodies; diffusion; and transport across membranes. (Contains 25 references.)…

Describes the "Physics by Inquiry" course that is designed to address student misconceptions. Explains how the course was taught at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro for teachers and how it was taught at Ohio State University for elementary-education majors. Concludes the course is exportable to many different environments…

Discusses the current and future roles of two-year colleges in science, mathematics, and engineering education. (PR)

Presents reasons why jargon should not be used in biology instruction. Argues that more hands-on science activities and relating learning to everyday living needs to occur in the science classroom. (PR)

The in-house development at Iowa State University of 30 scientific animations for biology instruction is described, from conceptual drawing board to actual use in lecture halls and computer labs. Recommendations for the design, creation, and implementation of animations are outlined. Production is guided by practical technical considerations as…