Test-wiseness strategies used by 11 general chemistry students as they answered a 15-item multiple choice examination were investigated using a think-aloud technique. The most common strategies were those that did not compromise the validity of the examination: error avoidance, elimination of incorrect responses, checking responses, and optimal…

Modifies a laboratory activity to ensure that consistencies exist between the laboratory objectives and the teacher's instructional goals (the constructivist learning theory). The changes are included in the article as well as a rationale for each change. (ZWH)

Gold's physical and chemical properties are without equal for use in high-tech fields such as medicine, space, architecture, and electronics. This article, with an accompanying poster on gold, contains the following sections: Lore and Legends; Matter, Metals, and Minerals; The Origins of Gold; Mining and Recovery; Cultural Crossroads; Modern…

Presents some simple demonstrations that students can construct for themselves in class to learn the difference between diffusion and convection rates. Uses cabbage leaves and gelatin and focuses on diffusion in ungelified media, a quantitative diffusion estimate with hydroxyl ions, and a quantitative diffusion estimate with photons. (DDR)

Examines the teaching journal of a first-year chemistry teacher to understand how teachers create professional identities. Focuses on three dilemmas related to feeling like a student versus the expectation to act like an adult, wanting to care for students rather than be tough, and feeling incompetent in the subject matter. Contains 47 references.…

Examines the effect of the manipulation of logical structure as well as the specific mental demand of general chemistry problems on student performance. Studies the relationship between student performance on these problems and a number of cognitive variables. Contains 96 references. (DDR)

Presents an activity that provides a model of equilibrium with simple concrete examples. Uses an analogy that employs a box of matches and students in groups. (DDR)

Presents two experiments that demonstrate phase changes. The first experiment explores phase changes of carbon dioxide using powdered dry ice sealed in a piece of clear plastic tubing. The second experiment demonstrates an equilibrium process in which a crystal grows in equilibrium with its saturated solution. (PVD)

Discusses how the journal "Internet Journal of Chemistry" is designed to take advantage of newly available technologies. Describes the development of the concept of an electronic journal, decision-making on the scope and coverage of the journal, financial logistics, and how the journal will be implemented. Includes perspectives on how this new…

Describes the development and implementation of computer-based multimedia techniques in organic chemistry courses. Provides technical details and some examples of student perspectives on the use of this technology. (DDR)

Discusses the development and implementation of two case studies based on local chemical industries for the Israeli high school chemistry curriculum. Also includes two types of professional-development experiences. Contains 16 references. (DDR)

Argues that deficits in basic arithmetic make it difficult for students to continue in mathematics and succeed in subjects such as chemistry and physics. Focuses on the state of the basic arithmetic skills of inner-city students. (DDR)

Addresses the interface between two scientific disciplines, chemistry and physics, and suggests that learners do not readily integrate their knowledge across such domains. Recommends further research on how demarcations encourage learners. Contains 46 references. (DDR)

Describes an activity in which students try to assess the problematics of modifying brackish saline water to grow high-quality crops. Students grow seedlings in solution culture over a two-week period to learn about the effects of salts, ions, and essential plant nutrients. (WRM)

Describes major changes that have occurred in the chemical industry over the last 50 years including trends in the development of products and processes, changes in chemical manufacturing, the globalization of business, and modifications of research laboratory practices. Discusses implications for chemistry education and predictions for future…