Presents samples of publicly available materials related to the role of iron in the diet. Summarizes what nutritionists feel about iron in the human diet and suggests some experiments related to iron for the classroom. (AIM)

Investigates procedural understanding of university students at the freshman level, prior to instruction, in the context of experimental work in physics. Proposes two types of reasoning used by students in the laboratory. Indicates a high degree of consistency of these modes of reasoning across experimental phases of data collection and…

Describes an inquiry-based science activity in which students investigate the preferred food sources of sowbugs. Students design their own experiment, perform a first trial, and refine their procedure before conducting a second trial with more accurate results. (SAH)

Describes a series of simple and nontraditional experiments that enable students to discover the properties of infrared radiation by studying the propagation, reflection, diffusion, and refraction of infrared. The experiments rely on two modules, an infrared transmitter and an infrared receiver. (SAH)

Presents an embryology laboratory observing the development of Ginkgo biloba's embryos into trees. Explains the methodology for the lab and discusses research questions. (YDS)

Presents an inquiry-based science laboratory examining the effects of alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH) on skin pigmentation in the African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis). (YDS)

Describes a relevant, innovative laboratory exercise that promotes the construction of ideas that can be used to further science processing. Integrates technology in the form of digital photography, a portable computer, and a projection device. This activity fits well in a high school chemistry class. (SAH)

Presents an experiment that tests for spontaneous generation, or abiogenesis. Observes microbial growth in nutrient broth under seven different flask environments. Includes instructions for the methods. (YDS)

Describes an activity to give students experience with the variables and forces impacting a moving body on an inclined plane by observing a ball as it rolls down an inclined PVC pipe of fixed length. Includes a student worksheet. (MKR)

Presents an overhead projector demonstration that uses the idea of color fading to demonstrate reaction kinetics and diffusion controlled reaction kinetics. (JRH)

Describes the experimental and theoretical details for constructing and calibrating an inexpensive, homemade liquid-lens refractometer. Measures refractive indices that are within the experimental errors discussed and close to the literature values. (JRH)

Describes systems used to introduce students to the concept of torque and discusses the effects that puzzle the beginner in the introductory lab. (JRH)

Describes a method to combine two learning experiences--optical physics and matrix mathematics--in a straightforward laboratory experiment that allows engineering/physics students to integrate a variety of learning insights and technical skills, including using lasers, studying refraction through thin lenses, applying concepts of matrix…

Presents a simple and reliable technique using commonly available equipment for monitoring carbon monoxide in automobile exhaust. The experiment utilizes a gas chromatograph and a thermal conductivity detector (TCD). (DDR)