CHEMPAC, a computer-based chemistry course developed for high school students, bridges the gap between textbook and laboratory to provide greater quantitative accuracy to laboratory experiments. This course and experiments (involving pH) illustrating the CHEMPAC approach are provided. (JN)

Discusses problems and pitfalls of working with single-pan balances and methods used to advertise their accuracy. Investigated manufacturers knowledge of buoyancy effects, relating provisions and recommendations made by various companies. Provides a routine for intercalibration of weight using dummy weights of approximately known mass. (JM)

Describes an experiment designed to teach students to apply the same statistical awareness to instrumentation they commonly apply to classical techniques. Uses propagation of error techniques to pinpoint instrumental limitations and breakdowns and to demonstrate capabilities and limitations of volumetric and gravimetric methods. Provides lists of…

Describes a pilot program that tested the feasibility of using a computer-based communication system for offering an interdisciplinary, inservice biology and chemistry course to regional high school teachers. Course structure (including computer management and electronic mail system), on-line examinations, and unanticipated problems are among the…

Suggests chemistry of cooking and analysis of culinary recipes as subject matter for introducing chemistry to an audience, especially to individuals with neutral or negative attitudes toward science. Includes sample recipes and experiments and a table listing scientific topics with related cooking examples. (JN)

This introduction to photoelectrochemical (PEC) cells reviews topics pertaining to solar energy conversion and demonstrates the ease with which a working PEC cell can be prepared with n-type silicon as the photoanode and a platinum counter electrode (both immersed in ethanolic ferrocene/ferricenium solutions). Experiments using the cell are…

Discusses use of microcomputers for grading, simulating laboratory experiments, data collection, and for communicating with students. Database systems, word processing, and an electronic spreadsheet program are also considered. Programing tips for several of these areas are included. (JN)

A brief review of the mole concept and its application is given, major problem areas are highlighted, and suggestions are made for a unified approach to alleviate some of the student misunderstanding when preparing solutions, calculating concentrations, and determining effects of dilution. (Author/JN)

Proposes a method for dealing with units that require involvement of units of each physical quantity at every stage of a calculation. Preliminary ideas on algebra and the concept of a physical quantity, equations relating two or more units, calculations of physical quantities, and logarithms are considered. (JM)

Recent studies indicate that industries desire college graduates who are able to perform scientific technical skills. As a result, colleges are attempting to produce graduates with a hybrid course of study emphasizing skills and traditional theories. Programs in chemistry, ecology, urban planning, and science technology have been developed…

Cites three historical anecdotes dealing with chromatography, the bioinorganic chemistry of iron, and the Pauli effect. (MLH)

Papua New Guinea is a young, developing nation, achieving independence in 1975. Industries which can be classified as chemical industries by western standards, are almost non-existent in Papua New Guinea. As yet, most of the raw materials it produces are exported to other countries to be processed or manufactured into useful products. However,…

This book is designed for middle school earth science or physical science teachers to help their students learn scientific literacy through event-based science. Unlike traditional curricula, the event- based earth science module is a student-centered, interdisciplinary, inquiry-oriented program that emphasizes cooperative learning, teamwork,…

It has been found repeatedly that when test takers are allowed to choose a subset of constructed response (CR) items to answer on a test, they tend to choose differently and often perform lower on more popularly chosen items. This study investigated the psychological factors that influence test takers choices. Using an experience that incorporated…

This paper discusses a research project that investigated the effectiveness of student surveys administered to eighth grade students on student involvement and learning. The surveys are called "Thinking About" and are presented at the beginning of each chapter in Core Science Textbooks. Two exercises were chosen for the study--chemical or physical…