Discussed is the difference between reading fiction and reading science. The importance of reading orally and developing an awareness of text structure are discussed. A checklist and questions for analyzing the language structure of science textbooks are included. (KR)

The importance of including multicultural education as a component of science teacher education programs is discussed. A definition of multicultural education, multicultural competencies of preservice science teachers, selected activities designed to focus on stereotyping, racism, classroom environment, and characteristics of a multicultural…

Described is a simple electronic interface that can receive signals from up to four analog sensors and four event detectors and save the data on disk. Schematic diagrams, construction details, sample temperature plot and weather station logging programs, and a parts list are included. (KR)

A simple matrix that can be used as a tool for analyzing environmental actions is presented. By using this matrix and focusing on examples of efforts to resolve environmental issues, students can build a mental model of how environmental problems are solved. (KR)

The Northwest Power Plan, developed by the Northwest Power Planning Council to deal with the increasing demands for energy by the Pacific Northwest, is discussed. An idea of how sufficient energy could be produced as well as preserve the qualities of life that make the Pacific Northwest special is presented. (KR)

Examines participation in science competitions to determine (1) whether gender differences in participation exist, and (2) whether there are gender differences in the subject areas selected (biological versus physical sciences). North Carolina student participation data were used for the years 1987-88. Gender differences in science competitions…

Proposes methods by which laboratory practical exams may be structured to assess outcomes from laboratory instruction. Presents eight general considerations for writing and using practical exams. Describes four example laboratory exams involving a box camera, circuit boxes, floating objects, and light. (MDH)

Presents two activities for introducing the topic of carbon dioxide: (1) Investigating Some Properties of Carbon Dioxide and (2) Building a Carbon Dioxide Generator. (PR)

Presents four stoichiometric problems and their solutions that use spot metal prices quoted from the newspaper to integrate economics and chemistry. (MDH)

Presents a technique that allows high school biology students to view materials not normally seen in the laboratory environment using a computer and videodisk technology. (MDH)

Presents a class activity in which students use trigonometry to calculate the height attained by a water rocket. Provides a lesson plan that includes a list of materials needed, procedures to carry out the experiment, suggestions to extend the activity, and a reproducible worksheet for the students to register their calculations. (MDH)

Presents a hands-on activity in which students try to identify 15 unknowns using only their sense of touch. This method reinforces the science process skills of observing, collecting and recording data, and analyzing data tables while requiring few reading skills. (MDH)

The outline for a unit on the chemistry of fitness and nutrition is presented. Topics discussed include the organic basis of life, functional groups, kitchen experiments, micronutrients, energetics, fitness vs. fatness, current topics, and evaluation. This unit reviews the basic concepts of chemical bonding, acid-base chemistry, stoichiometry, and…

An activity in which students research the effectiveness of recycling is presented. Students compare the types and amount of litter both before and after recycling is implemented. Directions for the activity and a sample data sheet are included. (KR)

Presented are classroom activities in which students explore the potential use of magnetic levitation for transportation purposes. The advantages of using a MagLev transportation system instead of conventional trains are discussed. Directions for designing and building a MagLev track and circuit are provided. (KR)