In this experiment, benzylic hydrogen reactivity is used to prepare dimers of a variety of alkyl benzenes, and the benzylic hydrogen reactivity of these compounds are compared. (BB)

This simple two-phase procedure for the oxidation of secondary alcohols to ketones is applicable to a wide variety of substrates and is also ideally suited for the undergraduate laboratory. (BB)

Describes a titration procedure done in glacial acetic acid. (BB)

Presents a mini-environment project as a valuable teaching tool for presenting ecology. The procedures for setting up a mini-desert in the classroom are presented as a model. Basic components of the mini-environment project are also included. (HM)

Describes a college level introductory oceanography course that incorporates a hands-on laboratory component. The activities include the determination of density and buoyancy, light transmission in sea water, and wave refraction. (MA)

Describes use of tail muscles and spinal cord in the tadpole as an alternative source for muscle-and-nerve experiments. Includes explanation of simple dissection and preparation of tadpole; instructions for experiments such as threshold, strength of stimulus, frequency of stimulus, single twitch, tetanus, fatigue, effects of temperature on…

Describes use of electronic model to simulate electrical patterns resulting from nerve cell interactions in the brain. Resembles nerve cell activity realistically in that the model produces signals above a set threshold, its firing activity varies, a refractory period is required before second firing, and it displays plasticity. (CS)

Diagrams and explains construction of an actograph which quantitatively records daily movements of animals for a 24-hour period. Combines use of a kymograph and the teetering box of Palmer. Biorhythm activities with fiddler crabs, cockroaches, and hamsters are suggested. (CS)

Outlines a 10-day unit in oceanography for the primary grades. Suggest stories, chalkboard work, topics for discussion, coloring projects, experiments, films, reference books, and topics for research projects. (CS)

Lists ten characteristics for a suitable focus topic for open-ended science problems. Examples of appropriate focus statements in the areas of life, earth, and space science are included. Discusses options open to teacher and student in providing open-ended learning. (CS)

Thirty-eight students were utilized to test the hypothesis that a science activity supplemented reading program would increase reading achievement in first graders. Results of the 161/2 week program indicated the experimental group performed significantly better. (SL)

Describes techniques for making laboratory glassware from discarded bottles, fluorescent tubes, and light bulbs. All materials needed are constructed from commonly available household items. (SL)

Most learning centers for science are custom-made by enthusiastic teachers eager to experiment with a new way to make science come alive for students. Suggests a way to plan a science center for the classroom. (Author/RK)

Describes several activities involving a total eclipse of the moon. Included are observations with binoculars, naked eye, and telescope; timing activities and observations of color changes during penumbral and umbral phases; and photography activities. (CS)

Explains the procedures used in an experiment that reinforces the universality of the concepts of saturation using the binding of the ligand aspartame to the protein receptor that determines taste. Illustrates the hyperbolic nature of protein binding. (DDR)