Discusses the differences between problems and exercises in chemistry, and some of the difficulties that arise when the same methods are used to solve both. Proposes that algorithms are excellent models for solving exercises. Argues that algorithms not be used for solving problems. (TW)

Discusses the difference between a generic chemistry problem (one which can be solved using an algorithm) and a harder chemistry problem (one for which there is no algorithm). Encourages teachers to help students recognize these categories of problems so they will be better able to find solutions. (TW)

Discusses the differences between problems and exercises, the levels of thinking required to solve them, and the roles that algorithms can play in helping chemistry students perform these tasks. Proposes that students be taught the logic of algorithms, their characteristics, and how to invent their own algorithms. (TW)

Questions the continued misuse of Markovnikov's Rule in organic chemistry texts. Claims that the results of several studies that show the reaction to be more complex than it appears at first. Criticizes authors of new texts who have perpetrated the rule based on reading older texts. (TW)

Describes a physical chemistry experiment that uses Fourier transform (FTIR) spectrometers and microcomputers as a way of introducing students to the spectral storage and manipulation techniques associated with digitized data. It can be used to illustrate FTIR spectroscopy, simple kinetics, inorganic mechanisms, and Beer's Law. (TW)

Presents the text of the Priestly Medal Address presented June 7, 1988 at the special chemical education awards symposium of the Third Chemical Congress of North America in Toronto. Addresses the vertical nature of learning in science, the core curriculum debate, and advances in science. (CW)

Describes a program offered by the U.S. Department of Energy for undergraduate science and engineering students aimed at providing research experience during the academic year at the six national laboratories. Reviews the potential interest and benefits to students. (CW)

Describes the use of student journals in a liberal arts chemistry class taken as part of the general education requirements by nonscience majors. Discusses the structure, grading, process, and benefits of the journal and its use in the course. (CW)

Describes three activities, substrate inhibition, product inhibition by fructose and glucose, and gel immobilization of invertase for use with undergraduate biochemistry classes. Discusses materials, methods, and results. Stresses the advantages of practical exercises in undergraduate classes. (CW)

Gives some ideas for studying and growing crystals in the classroom and home as well as some background information to help integrate these ideas into an existing science curriculum. Discusses three activities including common household materials and laboratory procedures. (CW)

Reports a classification of expository teaching styles of biology, chemistry and integrated science teachers in Nigeria. No evidence was found of pupil-pupil interaction in any of the lessons observed. Compares results with other studies from Britain, Canada, and Indonesia and indicates significant differences. (CW)

Discusses the need for a college chemistry course that is directly applicable to the real world. Describes some of the facets that such a course would contain and some of the possible benefits to students. (CW)

Compares processes used to investigate issues in consumer chemistry to the solving of a puzzle in a mystery story. Suggests using similar methods to teach problem solving in consumer chemistry classes. Describes how such a process might progress. (CW)

Describes a one-semester course in environmental chemistry for students who have had a full year of introductory level chemistry. Illustrates how material from this upper-level course was integrated into a general chemistry course. Examples of content are provided. (CW)

Describes a demonstration procedure using controlled reduction potentials to predict observed color changes which are then experimentally verified. Demonstrates the usefulness of this procedure in helping students understand LeChatelier's principle and the solubilit rule "like dissolves like." (CW)