Describes a second year, high school biology course in which students learn how to do independent investigations. Focuses on the research methodology used by the students (including Campbell and Stanley designs) and instructional strategies. (JN)

Presents findings of a study (by Rosanne Fortner) which determined: (1) the impact of a Jacques Cousteau television documentary on ninth-grade students' knowledge and attitudes; (2) whether the same information presented by a classroom teacher would have a similar impact; and (3) if knowledge/attitude changes are retained for two weeks. (JN)

Examined the effectiveness of cooperative, competitive, and individualistic interaction patterns in promoting acquisition of science process skills during biology laboratory activities. Results (from 720 secondary students--352 girls and 368 boys) show that competitive interaction was superior to cooperative and individualistic interaction…

Suggests a microcomputer/mastery-learning combination for more effective use of teacher time and management of records, tests, grading, and student directions. Mastery learning is discussed along with the many advantages microcomputers can provide toward this goal. (DH)

High school biology teachers (N=18), and one 10th-grade class of each teacher, were given the Nature of Scientific Knowledge Scale at the beginning and end of a school year to determine their conceptions of the nature of science. Results (such as students not possessing "adequate" conceptions of science) are reported and discussed. (JN)

Reports findings of a study on children's perceptions and alternate conceptions about the human circulatory system. Summarizes the responses of fifth and eighth grade students on questions dealing with the heart and blood. Offers examples of hands-on activities and confrontation strategies that address common misconceptions on circulation. (ML)

Presents factual information on penguins using an outline format. Includes descriptions of physical characteristics, behavioral mechanisms, geographical distribution, and physiological processes. Provides separate bibliographies for teachers and students. (ML)

Discusses use of a hornet or wasp nest as an inexpensive science investigation on thermoregulation. The investigation can be done during the winter months and adapted to various levels. Sample results and background material are included. (JM)

Determined effects of various methods and formats of administering a Piagetian task on college students' (N=376) performance. Concludes neither method nor format influenced subject performance; and this lack of influence is similar for various combinations of method and format. Importance of this finding and implications for teachers are…

Stereology is the study of three-dimensional objects through the interpretation of two-dimensional images. Stereological techniques used in introductory botany to quantitatively examine changes in leaf anatomy in response to different environments are discussed. (JN)

The microcomputer used as a closed-circuit television typewriter and graphics generator is suggested as an alternative visual teaching strategy for lecture or discussions. The use of such a system in an introductory biology course for nonmajors is discussed. (JN)

Discusses techniques involved in producing recombinant DNA. Also discusses implications of the new genetic technologies and prospects for the future. (JN)

Various typs of DNA are discussed. Areas considered include highly repetitive and satellite sequences, genes encoding, ribosomal RNA, histone protein genes, and dispersed repeated genes that jump. Regulated genetic misbehavior, structure and use of unique genes, and higher order complexities of chromosomes are also discussed. (JN)

Presented is an annotated bibliography of 24 books on DNA and genetic engineering. Areas considered in these books include: basic biological concepts to help understand advances in genetic engineering; applications of genetic engineering; social, legal, and moral issues of genetic engineering; and historical aspects leading to advances in…

Discusses the use of leaf mines (formed by larvae of small moths or flies) and galls (wasps' larvae) in various insect population studies. Also considers the advantages of using these structures for instructional purposes. (DH)