Reviews diverse types of computer programing languages and provides examples of representative programs from the most significant languages in use. Matches programing languages most suitable for various types of experimental applications for the amateur scientist. (JJK)

Provides a basic introduction to fluorescence enabling the amateur scientist to easily, and safely, demonstrate and photograph this phenomenon with the aid of an ultraviolet lamp. Includes a list of necessary equipment and materials, as well as catalog availability from several hardware suppliers. (JJK)

Provides a step-by-step guide for a simple experiment to measure the approximate percentage of oxygen found in the air that we breathe. Includes background theory, working drawings, chemicals needed, list of supplies, experimental procedure, data evaluation method, and suggestions for extended study. (Author/JJK)

Presents summer science activities for elementary students which focus on sunlight and other natural and artificial light sources (e.g., fire, flashlights, and fireflies). Related activities which involve language arts, art, and math are included. A reproducible page teaches children Morse Code using a flashlight. (SM)

Authors describe a biology course for nonmajors that appealed to student interests while retaining content integrity. The other philosophical foundations of the course were to increase student involvement and to conduct at least half of the laboratory aspect of the course at field-based locations. Details of transportation considerations,…

Describes the study of sandy beach zonations as a seashore activity for either high school or lower-level college courses in biology, ecology, or marine biology. Students first draw a profile of a beach scene and then collect specimens from the zones of the shore. In a laboratory, students identify their specimens and relate them to the beach…

The authors describe a simple forecasting strategy that focuses on environmental and global topics. Students choose their own topics, collect and analyze data, make predictions, and present findings to the class. Authors claim the following advantages of forecasting: students become motivated; work in cooperative groups; increase skills in…

A mechanical analogy between the microscopic motion of a charged carrier in an ordinary resistor and the macroscopic motion of a ball falling along a slanted board covered with a lattice of nails is introduced. The Drude model is also introduced to include the case of inelastic collisions. Computer simulation of the motion is described. (KR)

Equipped with a plastic film can and a pin, students can gain a better understanding of chromatic aberrations and inner eye phenomena, light, lenses, pinholes, shadows, and ray diagrams. (ZWH)

Presents three activities that uses three dimensional models to help teach geologic concepts such as geologic land forms and rock strata. (ZWH)

Offers suggestions on how to incorporate valid and meaningful writing assignments for the science classroom. (ZWH)

Teachers are being asked to provide students with activities that are relevant, interrelated, and challenging. This article describes an activity, Zoo Investigation Cards, that place students in an investigative problem-solving situation and allows them to observe living organisms in the complex system of their natural habitat. (ZWH)

A method for demonstrating eutrophication that can be used as a simple illustration of the phenomenon or as a basis for problem-solving activities is presented. A sample worksheet with procedures for this activity and discussion questions is included. (Author/KR)

A procedure for purifying DNA using either bacteria or rat liver is presented. Directions for doing a qualitative DNA assay using diphenylamine and a quantitative DNA assay using spectroscopy are included. (KR)

Some of the persistent misinformation offered to secondary students while studying chemistry is discussed. A few cases where plausibility, knowingly or otherwise, has been offered to students instead of the accurate explanation are described. Concepts of charge, current, the mole, amount, rates, activation energy, sign convention in voltaic cells,…