Discusses a 20-year period in British geology (1820-1840), focusing on a theory proposed by Reverend William Buckland in his "reliquiae diluvianae of Relics of the Flood." Indicates that this flood theory, the centerpiece of modern creationism, was disproved by professional clergymen who were also geologists, scientists, and…

The future of the universe is discussed in terms of several models. These include the closed, open, and critical models of the universe. Black holes and speculation on what may happen to life in the cosmological models are also discussed. (JN)

Physical, chemical, and biological effects on macrophytes (aquatic plants) on the freshwater ecosystem are discussed. Research questions and issues related to these organisms are also discussed, including adaptations for survival in a wet environment, ecological consequences of large-scale macrophyte eradication, seasonal changes in plant…

Using the biochemical record to class archaebacteria, eukaryotes, and eubacteria involves abstractions difficult for the concrete learner. Therefore, a method is provided in which students discover some basic tenets of biochemical classification and apply them in a "hands-on" classification problem. The method involves use of RNA…

Three experiments demonstrating basic properties of the active transport system in the Malpighian tubule are described. These include a demonstration of dye uptake by the tubule, effect of metabolic inhibitors on dye uptake, and temperature effects on active transport. (JN)

Discusses the generation, collection, and disposal of hazardous and other wastes in the chemistry laboratory. Offers suggestions related to these three areas to provide a safe teaching environment, including minimizing amounts of reagents used (and potentially wasted) by scaling down experiments. (JN)

Provides list of tests available for the 1983 American Chemical Society (ACE) testing program and tables of condensed norms for six ACE examinations. Also provides a listing of the subject matter content of General Chemistry Form 1983 and 1983B. The test contains 80 items in 15 major areas. (JN)

Discusses marine adaptations of seabirds, feeding/breeding methods, and their vulnerability to predators. Also considers dangers from new "predators," such as hunting, environmental factors (pollution/pesticides), and loss of natural environments. Future prospects for the survival of these organisms are considered. (JN)

United States scientists are being pressured by the government to cut back on scientific exchanges with the Soviet Union for both "natural security" and political reasons. Various aspects of the issue are discussed, suggesting that science itself will be the big loser in the government's shift of attitude toward science communication.…

Suggests stressing the humanistic dimensions of science as a way to bridge the gap between sciences and the humanities. Provides a rationale for focusing on the humanistic side of science and briefly describes a freshman seminar at Macalester College (St. Paul, Minn.) conducted by science, social science, and humanities faculty. (JN)

Describes computer grading system providing/storing scores and giving feedback to instructors on how students are performing on a day-to-day basis and how they are handling course concepts. Focuses on the hardware and software of this efficient computerized grading package, which can be used with classes of 250 students (or larger). (Author/JN)

A college level plasmolysis experiment, demonstrating principles of cell/water relations, has been modified to demonstrate the objective collection of data. Background information, laboratory procedures, results, and instructional strategies are provided. (Author/JN)

Highlights geological history activities during 1982. These include formation of The History of Earth Sciences Societies, publication of a new journal ("Earth Sciences History: The Journal of the History of Earth Sciences Societies"), and presentation of the first history of geology award. Comments on geological history publications are…

Mathematical techniques used to solve geological problems are briefly discussed (including comments on use of geostatistics). Highlights of conferences/meetings and conference papers in mathematical geology are also provided. (JN)

Provides a discussion of and instructions for preparing an efficient observation log to fit the personal interests and needs of the observer. A sample log for observing weather-related phenomena is included. (JN)