Describes a schema-theoretic view of how analogies enhance students' prior knowledge; reviews some of the recent studies using analogies to assist students' comprehension of science text; and illustrates the use of an analogical study guide in biology. (HOD)

Describes an interdisciplinary program designed to give junior-level chemistry, biology and physics majors general knowledge of the theory/application of instrumental methods, practical experience in instrument operation/data interpretation and use of instruments to make measurements to solve problems. This course contains a common…

Describes a series of four experiments designed for small group involvement (each requiring 6 days) emphasizing students' scientific methodology. Topics include: feeding behavior; light/temperature effects on reproduction; effect of density on feeding; and altered male/female ratios on male behavior. Each experiment includes introduction, material…

Discusses the changing function of the modern zoo from its merely recreational role to its newly emerging role as preserver of species, educator, and center for research. Describes the San Diego Zoo as the model for the modern zoo and provides tips for planning field trips to a zoo. (JM)

Highlights a workshop utilizing a four-volume sourcebook for K-12 science teachers and naturalists. The volumes contain 38 units focusing on land, water, atmosphere and weather, plants, animals, energy, natural ecosystems, urban areas, unusual and rare features, and problems and issues. A sample interdisciplinary activity on bullfrog development…

Reviewed is computer software on: (1) classification of living things, a tutorial program for grades 5-10; and (2) polynomial practice using tiles, a drill-and-practice program for algebra students. (MNS)

Describes a laboratory experience for a general biology or physiology course designed to increase awareness and promote principles of exercise prescription. The fitness evaluation methods utilized, use of the microcomputer to manipulate data from diagnostic tests, development of individualized exercise prescriptions by each student, and…

A comparison of the effects of full- and half-day kindergarten programs in Southern California provides evidence that longer programs promote skill and knowledge acquisition, enhance students' self-confidence and cooperation, help convince the community of the district's intent to strengthen elementary schools, and may encourage increased…

Ferns in culture provide versatile and easily manipulated material for a wide variety of experiments and observations. Information is provided that supplements earlier reports of the vast experimental potential of these cryptogams and outlines laboratory exercises which reveal the regenerative behavior of fern tissue. (JN)

Since 1977, six different classes of Ashland High School (Ohio) biology students have been monitoring a local river for the presence of sewage treatment plant effluent. Several project results, physicochemical parameters, and data on biota collected at two stations are presented. (JN)

Whether you're a stream studies novice or a veteran aquatic monitor, "Watershed Dynamics" gives you abundant practical resources to extend your students' investigations into local water quality and land-use issues. This two-part set is ideal for teaching biological and ecological concepts and research techniques. It also shows how the interplay…

This paper reviews the history of the GLOBE (Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment) Program, an international environmental science education program. The goals of the program are to: enhance the environmental awareness of individuals around the world; contribute to the scientific understanding of the earth; and to help all…

This curriculum guide is all about otters and provides information on both sea and river otters. Included are activities related to the diet of sea otters, the adaptations sea otters have made to live in the sea, their tool-using abilities, where they live and how to spot them, comparative anatomy of sea and river otters, and otter movement. The…

This curriculum guide is all about wolves and provides information through the telling of a story about wolves and their history and folklore. The 14 activities contained in this guide employ an interdisciplinary approach and use mazes, puzzles, model-building, and board games to motivate students. Activity topics include building a wolf,…

The purpose of this study was to evaluate The Student Genome Project, an experiment in web-based genetics education. Over a two-year period, a team from New York University worked with a biology teacher and 33 high school students (N=33), and a middle school science teacher and a class of students (N=21) to develop a World Wide Web site intended…