Ways in which linear lesson sequences can be modified to provide increased opportunities for open-ended activities especially with problem solving are considered. Examples drawn from chemistry and plant reproduction, seeds, and germination are given. (KR)

Discusses the importance of saving species and dispels myths surrounding the endangered species act as background to three student activities that include a round table debate, writing to congresspeople, and a research project suggestion. Lists reference materials for endangered species. (MCO)

Presents hands-on spring science activities to help elementary students think and act like scientists. Students use the scientific process to make connections between life, physical, and earth science. Activities look at insects, flowers, trees, the sun, and the earth's rotation around the sun. (SM)

Presents a demonstration to show students how wind and temperature can influence the rate of transpiration in a plant. Lists supplies needed and steps for the procedure. (NB)

Presents an activity that addresses cultural differences and diversity through ethnobotany. Offers a multicultural framework designed to develop concepts about plant characteristics and taxonomy. (ASK)

Introduces a grassroots environmental club in which members trained intensively in chemistry and biology for field testing. Discusses projects on endangered pitcher plants and biodiversity. (YDS)

Presents two exercises on the study of tropisms. Discusses gravitropism control mechanisms present in plants. (ASK)

Discusses how the many problems in botany teaching are interrelated and most have existed since at least the early 1900s. Considers botany teaching at both the precollege and introductory college levels. Discusses botany neglect in biology teaching, botanical illiteracy, uninteresting or irrelevant botany teaching, zoochauvinism, research…

Presents a soybean project designed with an interdisciplinary approach that includes the stages of planting soybeans, studying the impact of rhizobium bacteria on soybean root development, synthesizing the raw oil to methyl ester, testing of biodiesel on a hybrid electric car, and studying the commodities market. Integrates plant science,…

Presents three science activities targeted to help urban students learn about nature: (1) observing coloration patterns of pigeons; (2) measuring local rainfall and comparing it to other areas; and (3) conducting a biodiversity study by observing a patch of lawn. (YDS)

Presents an experiment using plants grown on the classroom window sill that allows students to gain valuable hands-on experience in the collection and analysis of empirical data. (ASK)

Recommends the use of a model of DNA made out of Velcro to help students visualize the steps of DNA replication. Includes a materials list, construction directions, and details of the demonstration using the model parts. (DDR)

Discusses Knob's solution, which was considered the ideal plant growth solution in 1865, and recommends eliminating Knob's solution from active teaching. Describes solution culture basics including nutrient solutions, containers and aeration, and plants and light. (Contains 12 references.) (YDS)

Presents the history and explains the basics of hydroponics. Discusses the two categories of hydroponic systems, water-culture systems and media-based systems. (YDS)

Few people are more curious about their worlds than young children. Why, then, do so many science lessons begin with questions supplied by adults rather than kids? In many published programs, lessons revolve around set questions, with step-by-step directions provided for children to follow. This approach seems to say that young children are not…