Shows how video recordings of the Brownian motion of tiny particles may be made. Describes a classroom demonstration and cites a reported experiment designed to show the random nature of Brownian motion. Suggests a student experiment to discover the distance a tiny particle travels as a function of time. (MVL)

Offers challenging work at a higher level of technique than most students meet in elementary laboratory work. Uses a combined weight and volumetric sequence not shown in textbooks. Notes modern rapid balances help lower evaporation loss during weighings. Discusses the balance, weights, and buoyancy considerations. (MVL)

Notes that laboratory work should be more oriented towards puzzle solving rather than technique or illustration. Offers three organic laboratory puzzles which can be solved by melting point alone. Involves lab work at the 100-200-mg scale but still uses conventional glassware. (MVL)

Notes that this experiment takes safety and noncarcinogenic reactants into account. Demonstrates the use of diazonium salts for the replacement of an aromatic amine group by a phenolic hydroxyl. Involves two pleasant-smelling organic compounds, methyl anthranilate (grape) and methyl salicylate (oil of wintergreen). (MVL)

Addresses whether or not science laboratory activities should become a thing of the past. Discusses the impact of the curriculum reforms of the 1960s and 1970s, physical restraints which cause teacher overload, rationale, and objectives of laboratory work. (RT)

Reports on acquiring and analyzing enzyme kinetics data using Apple microcomputers. Describes the experimental background and procedures, instrumentation, cautions, and construction aids. Cites applications which illustrate the use of a computer in a laboratory exercise. (RT)

Reports an experimental procedure for studying Einstein's theory of Brownian movement using commercially available latex microspheres and a video camera. Describes how students can monitor sphere motions and determine Avogadro's number. Uses a black and white video camera, microscope, and TV. (ML)

Discusses one approach to addressing lack of exposure to science for African American students, the Saturday Academy of Clark Atlanta University. Areas of interest are laboratory activities, hands-on science, and social engagement. Presents a review of related literature and a study of the program. Contains 16 references. (LZ)

Develops the idea of fractals through a laboratory activity that calculates the fractal dimension of ordinary white bread. Extends use of the fractal dimension to compare other complex structures as other breads and sponges. (MDH)

A phenomenological explanation of this effect is provided. Suggestions for the inclusion of pyroelectric effects into a unit on electrostatics are given. (CW)

Examines whether teachers' views about the nature of science and scientific inquiry are reflected in their choice and design of learning experiences (particularly laboratory activities) and, therefore, are significant influences on students' understanding of science. (SM)

Presents a laboratory experiment designed to help students understand the concept of diastolic blood pressure, the pressure during which the left ventricle of the heart is not contracting. Examines the effect of strenuous exercise on blood pressure. Includes materials needed, procedures, results, and discussion of the results. (MDH)

Presents examples of chemical education research that illustrate changes in focus, method, and direction over the past 50 years. Contains more than 50 references. (WRM)

Describes an interdisciplinary science laboratory course for non-majors that uses the history of science as a curricular guide. Profiles two sample projects that consider the importance of teachers to classroom dynamics and the institutional political context. (Author/WRM)

While babysitting or preparing home meals, young people (and adults too) sometimes overlook cleanliness procedures. One of the first employment opportunities for teenagers is often in a fast-food restaurant where the safe handling and proper cooking of foods is essential. To teach students about food safety practices, the U.S. Food and Drug…