Describes some simple experiments related to the properties of crystals. Illustrates isomorphism using single crystals of alum. Presents experiments for determining how various mixture compositions affect the growth of salt crystals. (WRM)

Describes a scientific mystery with an emphasis on chemical magic presented in the context of the characters Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. The story contains a break where students and teachers pause to ponder and solve the mystery. Sherlock Holmes provides his solution in the paragraphs following this break. (WRM)

Describes how to grow crystals of para-dichlorobenzene beginning with household mothballs. The crystals form through sublimation (solid to gas) and deposition (gas to solid). Also discusses demonstrations of evaporation and condensation and odor perception, which can support a study of the kinetic theory and phases of matter. (WRM)

Describes a study that sought to provide a better understanding of "chemophobia" at the college level by determining the extent of chemophobia in the college classroom, the factors that contribute to college students' fear of learning chemistry and handling chemicals, and the characteristics of college students who display these fears. (Contains…

Describes how scientists use representations and tools in the chemistry laboratory. Derives implications from these findings for the design of educational environments. (Author/CCM)

Finds that chemistry learning is conceptualized by gymnasium teachers as gaining knowledge, problem-solving, and constructing personal understandings. (Author/CCM)

Information concerning structural chemistry and phase equilibria contained in the full phase diagrams of common substances is a great deal richer than the general chemistry students are given to believe. Discusses ways of enriching the traditional presentation of phase diagrams in general chemistry courses. (Contains over 20 references.) (WRM)

Presents a homemade, safe, effective, and inexpensive reactor vessel for ultrasonic horns with applications in microscale experiments in teaching and research laboratories. The reactor vessel is designed for an ultrasonic probe that allows reactions to be run at the microscale level at a wide range of temperatures and under inert atmosphere.…

Presents an annotated bibliography of information useful for teaching, learning, and researching in chemistry. Entries are organized under the headings: (1) Continuing Sources of Assistance in Using and Teaching Chemical Information; (2) Guides, Sourcebooks, Proceedings; (3) Guides--Specific Subject Areas; (4) Guides--Specific Information Sources;…

Poses the question, "Who will do science in the 21st century?" Indicates the importance of providing public education for all Americans. Criticizes the lack of women in chemistry faculty positions. (YDS)

Reports the findings of a three-year study that explored the development of children's concepts of evaporation at room temperature and condensation of atmospheric water vapor. (DDR)

Relates the reasoning of students introduced to the concept of chemical equilibrium to the historical development of the concept. Concludes that the study of authentic historical sources may inspire the design of effective teaching activities. Contains 33 references. (DDR)

Makes the case that the traditional sequence of biology, chemistry, and physics in U.S. high schools may be at the root of poor student performance. Reviews integrated, inverted, and coordinated science teaching. (DDR)

Describes a spreadsheet activity for the iodine-clock reaction which follows the concentrations of all reactions and products for 200 seconds and gives the induction period. Explains that, although there are limitations to the spreadsheet, it is nevertheless illuminating. (Author/ASK)

Describes the implementation of a modular approach and some of the active learning strategies it employs, plans for evaluating the effectiveness of this approach, and plans for disseminating it broadly within the undergraduate chemistry community. (DDR)