Discusses a study that examined which reasoning patterns are necessary for success in high school chemistry. Based on student (N=170) scores from the "Classroom Test of Formal Reasoning," it was revealed that students who use formal reasoning patterns are capable of greater achievement in chemistry. (ML)

Provides descriptions and background information on: the use of workcards; Piaget and science curriculum analysis; a case for integrated science; the mechanism of aqueous bromination; integrating science/mathematics with language arts; and energy education. (ML)

Describes a laboratory experiment that is designed to aid in the understanding of the fundamental process involved in gas chromatographic separations. Introduces the Kovats retention index system for use by chemistry students to establish criteria for the optimal selection of gas chromatographic stationary phases. (TW)

Describes a computer program, "Activation Energy," which is designed for use in physical chemistry classes and can be modified for kinetic experiments. Provides suggestions for instruction, sample program listings, and information on the availability of the program package. (ML)

Suggests preparing displays which include both dynamic and static items to attract observers' attention and hold their interest. Includes instructions for making exhibits related to phenomena associated with Joseph Priestley and Michael Faraday. (DH)

Describes procedures for two demonstrations: (1) photochemical energy conversion using ferric oxalate actinometry and (2) liquification of gases using Freon 114. Safety precautions are given for both demonstrations, as are procedures and material specifications. (JM)

Examination results from 1146 Jamaican high school students in single-sex and coeducational schools indicated students from coeducational schools had lower performance on all measures. A subsample provided more information on sex differences, performance in individual subjects, and students receiving grades of A or B. (DH)

Describes a visual transparency method to develop the concept of resonance with respect to molecular resonance hybrid structures and partial charge on the atoms of an ion. Discusses the distinction between tautomerism and resonance, and emphasizes clarification of the Lewis structure concept. (JM)

The inadequacy of secondary and undergraduate student preparation for dental school science instruction requires that dental schools provide remedial instruction and study skill-building opportunities for their students and be more specific about the kinds of preprofessional training required of applicants. (MSE)

Presents 23 experiments, demonstrations, activities, and computer programs in biology, chemistry, and physics. Topics include lead in petrol, production of organic chemicals, reduction of water, enthalpy, X-ray diffraction model, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, computer simulation for additive mixing of colors, Archimedes Principle, and…

As part of Hungary's Curriculum Theory Department (CTD-80) assessment, 1,543 14-year-olds were tested in the performance of science experiments in physics and chemistry. Skills included observing, measuring, hypothesizing, and drawing conclusions. Results are presented, and implications for curriculum are suggested. (GDC)

Variability in the grammatical profile of finite verbs in English is examined in 20 Master of Science theses in biology, chemistry, and physics. The use of verbs with respect to voice, tense, aspect, and modality is examined in five rhetorical sections of the theses--introduction, review, methods, results, discussion. (SED)

Describes a video monitoring technique for detailed analysis of student use of computer-based learning programs which produces a synchronized record of computer output and student use; a study concerned with developing computer-based learning programs in chemistry which utilizes the technique; and advantages and disadvantages of the technique.…

Reports on a project in which observations of student and teaching assistant behavior were used to redesign a teaching unit on recrystallization. Comments on the instruction manual, starting points for teaching the unit, and list of objectives with related tasks are included. (JN)

Twelve papers focusing on various aspects of teaching chemistry to the nonchemist are presented. Includes details of courses designed around specific topics and/or needs (such as art hazards), use of field trips, issues related to the problem of explaining technical ideas to lay persons, and other topic areas. (JN)