Examples of errors in statements of physics concepts found in textbooks at all levels are cited and discussed. The author states: "There seems to be a tendency to be deliberately careless in textbooks for the lower levels, apparently in an attempt to be understood more easily." Oversimplifications identified as errors are presented with…

Discusses reasons why physics is considered contrived and abstract, and suggests ways to teach aspects of physics that show relations between human beings and between man and nature. (MLH)

Describes the difference between the approach of statistical probability and the deterministic approach to physical theories. Shows that it is near the truth to see physical theory as a hierarchical structure in which successively complex levels alternate between probabilistic and deterministic explanations. (Author/GA)

Discussed are the seed dispersal mechanisms of six different plants: big-leaf maple, pincushion tree, tree of heaven, squirting cucumber, digger pine, and bull thistle. Elaborate color and black-and-white drawings illustrate the text. (MA)

Provides an analysis of how a student can improve his score on the Advanced Placement Physics exam. (SL)

Attempts to clarify certain oversimplifications commonly occurring in the teaching of chemical kinetics. (SL)

Describes analogs of abstract concepts of elementary particle physics. (SL)

Explains that Wolfgang Brezinka's approach to a scientific system of education is one of few contemporary educational theories that includes both elements of the philosophy of science and conceptual analysis. Examines this theory and concludes that Brezinka's blueprint for a scientific system of education degenerates into fiction. (Author/BSR)

Discusses how the discovery of chaos has created a new paradigm in scientific modeling and how findings are contributing to changes in thought about many different branches of science. Includes explanations and examples of how chaotic behavior can be understood. (ML)

Discusses the need for students to develop understanding of science by designing their own laboratory experiments. Lists examples of concepts that can be taught through student-designed biology experiments. Also gives suggestions and guidelines to ensure that laboratory time is manageable and productive. (DH)

Discusses the fact that freshman chemistry courses are becoming more quantitative, and recommends that qualitative and empirical topics not be excluded from such curricula. (MLH)

Describes the construction of teaching models made from a variety of materials such as poker chips and cardboard that illustrate many chemical phenomena, including subatomic particles, molecular structure, solvation and dissociation, and enzyme-substrate interactions. (MLH)

Describes historically the acceptance of the theory of Continental drift and plate tectonics. (SL)

This research aims to study the ways in which "local" events of randomness, based on experiencing the outcome of individual events, can be developed into "global" understandings that focus on an aggregated view of probability (e.g. probability of an event). The findings reported in the paper are part of a broader study that adopted a strategy of…

The literature of science fiction packs up the facts and discoveries of science and runs off to futures filled with both wonders and warnings. Kids love to take the journeys it offers for the thrill of the ride, but they can learn as they travel, too. This book will provide the reader with: (1) an overview of the past 500 years of scientific…