Teaching the large introductory science course is a challenge, but when the objective is seen not as covering the field but uncovering part of it to illustrate principles common to the whole, the facts are no longer the end result but tools with which the disciplines can be further explored. (Author/MSE)

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)

Compared levels of formal operational thought of students tested before and after entering science programs. Results indicate considerable numbers of students at transitional levels on each occasion, low correlations between cognitive level and grades, and significant development in levels of cognitive thought during the National High School…

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…

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)

Presents a twofold approach to teaching basic geology based on five principles to make science accessible to students who think they are bored with or afraid of the subject. The approach focuses on: appealing to the mind (to attack boredom) and appealing to the emotions (to attack fear). (BC)

Describes an experiment for plotting equipotential curves in which the normally used electrometer is replaced by a null-deflecting potentiometer, and in which the uniform resistance wire is substituted by carbon-impregnated conductive paper. Procedures and sample plot/results (including graphic analysis) are provided. (JM)

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)

A Biological Sciences Curriculum Study (BSCS) inquiry approach for university general biology laboratory was tested against a well-established commercial program judged to be highly directive. The BSCS was found to be more effective in learning biology laboratory concepts than the commercial program as measured by a laboratory concepts test.…

A meta-analysis of research results for correlating science achievement and attitude was conducted, using 43 studies with 15 variables coded for each correlation found in each study (yielding 280 coefficients). Casual ordering results support achievement causing attitude in grades three to eight and mixed results thereafter. Additional results are…

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

Describes an undergraduate course in scientific writing and communications designed to improve the science major's ability to communicate with the general public via mass media. (SL)

Described is the construction of a density gradient column and several density related experiments which can be performed with the device. (SL)

Described in detail are two techniques for preparing vertebrate animal skeletons. (SL)

Prerequisite courses are essential tools in many university curricula, but some educators have suggested that they may be detrimental if applied too stringently to exclude students from courses. A measure of the value of prerequisites is whether or not they promote student success. The strongest way to test the value of prerequisites is to compare…