Describes a revised laboratory set-up for performing flame tests that enables students to pay more attention to the results of the tests and less attention to the manipulation of equipment. Employs a watch glass to add the analytical solutions to the flame. (DDR)

Presents the ninth story in a series of chemical mysteries with emphasis on forensic chemistry, physical properties, and qualitative organic analysis. The mystery centers around the adventures of Sherlock Holmes. (DDR)

Presents three experiments to introduce students to different kinds of chromatography: (1) paper chromatography; (2) gel filtration chromatography; and (3) reverse-phase liquid chromatography. Written in the form of a laboratory manual, explanations of each of the techniques, materials needed, procedures, and a glossary are included. (PVD)

States that the ecological role of Sphagnum species in peatlands is enormous. Presents a cation exchange experiment and background information on the characteristics and economic importance of Sphagnum. Contains 42 references. (DDR)

Presents an approach that can help students to understand what happens in an experiment. Uses overlapping transparencies of both the experiment and the analysis. Includes details of the experiment and transparency preparation. (DDR)

Taps the voices of college-bound high school students concerning what it means to understand and succeed in introductory chemistry. Employs ethnographic and interpretive methods. Contains 33 references. (DDR)

Presents results of an exam designed to uncover misconceptions about molecular shape and bonding based on the VSEPR model. Results are reported for high school students, beginning and advanced undergraduate students, beginning and advanced graduate students, and college-chemistry faculty. Finds that students seem to acquire both recall and…

A content-specific staff development summer institute upgraded teachers' knowledge of chemistry concepts, increased familiarity with pedagogical strategies, and facilitated transfer of program initiatives into the classroom. A 2.5-year study indicated that the program was beneficial. Three essential program components were modeling and practicing…

Describes the use of thought-provoking essay questions such as "How does one determine the temperature at which Hell freezes over?" to promote better communication skills among chemistry students. Makes reference to and suggests other thought-provoking questions. (WRM)

Describes gender differences in the use of online chat room tutorials by nontraditional chemistry students enrolled in distance-learning sections of a general chemistry course. (Author/CCM)

Reports on a community-service project carried out by general chemistry students at the University of Utah. Students research lead poisoning then visit neighborhood homes to teach about lead poisoning, collect exterior paint samples, and analyze them as part of a chemistry experiment. Discusses service-learning and laboratory activities. (WRM)

Correlates the kinds of strategies associated with a deep approach to learning science. Analyzes the interactions of two groups of grade 8 students while they were engaged in hands-on science activities during instruction in a chemistry unit. Focuses on two students who showed a deep approach to learning. (Contains 47 references.) (Author/YDS)

This case study narrative of a middle school science teacher's experience of science education and commitment to promoting equity was developed collaboratively by the teacher and a university researcher. It demonstrates how this form of case study can be a way to represent teachers' practical knowledge. (SK)

Presents a test of the limits of the Johnstone--El-Banna model of problem solving as related to students' responses to organic-synthesis problems. Finds that the predicted pattern was observed in both samples, although the model was more useful for students without previous problem-solving training and for field-independent and field-intermediate…

Makes recommendations for new science teachers about what to do in the middle level classroom. Advocates being creative in the classroom and in finding resources. (YDS)