Offers a psychological role that external representations can play in the process of refining intuitive ideas into scientific knowledge. Presents an argument for this role through historical analysis of Galileo's ramp experiments, then through documentation of an innovative 6th grade classroom activity. (Contains 19 references.) (Author/YDS)

Describes a course that uses student-designed laboratory experiments for a one-semester, junior-level physiology course. Discusses advantages and pitfalls of using this methodology. (Author/KHR)

Presents a spiral puzzle to test students' ability to remember the names of organic reactions and reagents. (YDS)

Makes recommendations to help students collaborate with classmates to make decisions, grapple with problems, reflect on ethical dilemmas, and maintain relations with customers or business partners to develop social skills and flourish self-esteem. (KHR)

Describes a science activity that can be implemented into anatomy and physiology courses that demonstrates the interactions between action and myosin, the roles of sodium and calcium ions in the regulation of contraction, and the functions of the plasma membrane and the sarcoplasmic reticulum. (YDS)

Uses earthquakes to teach about the importance of collecting enough data and simplifying and visualizing them appropriately. Leads students relatively easily into a sophisticated yet enjoyable examination of large databases and creating hypotheses to explain the patterns that they unearth. (Author/NB)

Describes a press conference that was used as a "teachable moment" when owl pellets being used for instructional purposes were found to be contaminated with Salmonella. The incident highlighted the need for safe handling of owl pellets, having a crisis management plan, and the importance of conveying accurate information to concerned parents.…

Incorporates environmental education into the arts to enhance student learning, imagination, and ability to invent solutions. Provides lesson ideas such as a river walk, bird adaptation sculptures, and a tree scavenger hunt. (YDS)

Introduces the plant Amaryllis, which is the common name for the Hippeastrum species. Describes how to grow and bloom Amaryllis in soil using hydroponics. Introduces experiments investigating the anatomy of the bulb, growing and elongation rates, the flower, and foliage. (Contains 21 references.) (YDS)

Describes a science activity on skin, its structure, function, and variety, which can be used as a multicultural lesson on racial sensitivity. Includes an activity worksheet. (YDS)

Presents lab exercises in which students use the microscope to study cells. Describes these activities as allowing students to work independently and become more proficient at microscope use. Students also gain a deeper understanding of the more invisible world of science. (Author/KHR)

Suggests some helpful trade books and activities to nurture creativity and inventiveness. (KHR)

Describes collaborative teaching with real-world scientists in inquiry-based classrooms. Discusses its influence on students' attitudes toward science and their interest in science careers. (Author/KHR)

Energy as an abstract concept is discussed, and the effect of using inappropriate language in the teaching of energy is considered. The storage of energy is illustrated using gravitation and the combustion of coal as examples. (CW)

Described is an experiment in which factor analysis is used to identify and quantify the components of mixtures containing up to four species. Discussed are the theory, procedures, and sample results for this activity. (CW)