Described are several experiments, for a course in geometrical optics or for a college physics laboratory, which have a bearing on ophthalmic optics. Experiments include the single thin prism, crossed prisms, and the prismatic power of a lens. (Author/DS)

Reported is the status of elementary science teaching during the 1978-79 school year as indicated by a survey of 184 elementary preservice teachers, from three institutions, who had just completed eight weeks of student teaching. These data are compared with information from a national survey completed in 1971. Changes are identified and…

Describes two approaches for teaching inorganic reactions and syntheses without having students memorize specific reactions. Briefly indicates topics which should be covered in a junior-senior level course but not at the expense of eliminating teaching students how to make basic inorganic compounds. (Author/JN)

Presents a very brief description of solid state chemistry, its industrial applications, and rationale for its inclusion in the inorganic chemistry curriculum. The topic is intellectually challenging, economically useful and, in the view of the author, fun. (Author/JN)

Suggests: (1) a "coherent" approach featuring mutual reinforcement, unifying themes, the easy incorporation of seemingly isolated facts, and growing powers of predictability: (2) incorporation of current research findings; and (3) special topics, in addition to basics. Suggests "Account of Chemical Research" as a source for…

Discusses an attempt to have students learn chemistry by conducting and discussing laboratory experiments in small groups largely independent of the teacher. The project results and the 30 experiments that student groups conducted are described. (WB)

The need for nutrition education to be given higher priority in science instruction in today's world is promoted. Nutrition is viewed as a significant problem for all persons in a personal sense and in a societal sense. (MP)

Discusses what NAEP and NPAS assessments of learning about science reveal about the development of scientific awareness among the citizenry. Summarizes findings of the National Science Foundation-sponsored nationwide studies of precollege curriculums in science, mathematics, and social science dealing with the status of science in the education of…

The contents of two recently published documents on school science education in the UK are summarized and discussed from a university biologist's viewpoint. The documents discussed are "Alternatives for Science Education" and "Science and the Organization of Schools in England--Implications for the Needs of Talented Children."…

Described is Western Australia's elementary and secondary science education programs relative to science content, emphasis on science, instructional goals, and science curriculum materials utilized. School enrollments and the demand for highly trained technical personnel in Western Australia are also discussed. (DS)

The uses of isoenzyme assays are reviewed as they relate to solutions of practical problems. Emphasizes their use of diagnostic tools in medicine, specifically in cardiac profiling. Suggests that principles of isoenzyme assays readily demonstrate molecular structure, acid-base equilibria, kinetics, and electrochemistry to general chemistry…

Science is shown to have unique characteristics that make it a valuable component of a basic education. While stressing the physical world, it can also provide a good model for rational and moral behavior. (JMF)

The article advocates the use of content topics, and by the use of appropriate enquiry process skills, the development of broad concepts which will encourage children to consider their attitudes in a broad range of issues and the part they can play in decisions about them. (Author/RE)

Presented is a curriculum description for medical school physiology. The curriculum involves integration of computer-based instruction with periodic faculty/student contact. The curriculum has four modes of operation. Modes can be selected by the instructor to best suit student needs. Student exam performance has shown increased learning through…

Discusses the important challenges facing high school chemistry teachers in the 1980s. Topics include increasing the enrollment of non-science-oriented students in high school chemistry courses and teaching the Interdisciplinary Approaches to Chemistry (IAC) program to college-bound general students. (BT)