Describes a science olympiad recommended as an alternative to the science fair, providing organizational details and funding notes. Discusses the competitive events which specifically include chemistry, events from other academic areas, and events designed just for fun which still provide a flavor of science. (JM)

Provides procedures for the study of osmosis and anthocyanin pigments utilizing wet mount techniques with purple onion. Suggests several activities using this preparation. (JM)

The "Measurement Module" is a device which records measurements for microcomputer input. Construction of the device, software, and uses in physics experiments and demonstrations are discussed. (JN)

Discusses the physics behind making ice cream in a hand-cranked ice cream maker. Ingredients in the maker are cooled and hardened by a bath of ice, water, and rock salt. Several experiments to investigate the variables involved in preparing the ice cream (and related desserts) are included. (JN)

Describes research activities and recent findings on disease-causing viruses, fungi, and bacteria. Includes a list of contemporary viruses and what they cause and lists of extra-classroom microbiology activities and student projects. (BC)

Presents (in the form of a dialogue between a student and teacher) an alternative method of using the Fine-Beam Cathode-Ray Tube to obtain the value for the specific electronic charge e/m. (JN)

Attitudes toward science of 654 pupils aged 14-15 were assessed, and relationships between attitude and locality, achievement, and sex studied. Achievement was mildly correlated with attitude, but locality and sex had no influence. Other findings are also discussed. (MNS)

Materials from a student-made kit are used to investigate physics phenomena while riding on various amusement park rides. A list of materials contained in the kit and procedures for their use are included. (JN)

Describes the use of a Pac-Man model (called a Pactype) in teaching various genetics concepts. Indicates that students can learn to make predictions, analyze patterns of inheritance, and evaluate hypotheses before being introduced to the genetics vocabulary. (JN)

Discusses motions of the sun and earth in relation to the accuracy of clocks. Effect of eccentricity of the earth's orbit, efect of inclination of the earth's axis, and combination of these two effects are considered. The accuracy of sundials is also discussed. (DH)

Describes a laboratory activity which provides practical experience in wiring an electrical circuit with line voltage and everyday components. Students use wooden frames, bulbs, wire, fuses, and switches to test their wiring skills. (DH)

Advocates ornithology as a second-year biology course to create interest and expose students to a variety of science concepts and skills. Recommended course projects include: species identification, habitat visits, population impact studies, migration patterns, and food preferences. Activities and suggestions are given for a January to June…

Discusses issues related to examination questions which begin by asking students to "Describe an experiment to..." Indicates that this strategy is useful when focusing on important quantities/phenomena or "celebrated" experiments and that examining boards should not request students to describe experiments which verify or…

Enzyme technology has a well-established industrial base, with applications that have survived competition. The most prominent applications of enzymes in biotechnology are examined with an explanation of some theoretical background. Topics include extending an enzyme's useful life, partition and diffusion, industrial uses, and therapeutic uses.…

Presents a problem on nonstandard concentrations at nonstandard temperature modeled after an example problem on the Nernst equation found in a high school chemistry textbook. Discusses why the problem is incorrect, offering a second problem which is correctly solved. Implications for teaching the Nernst equation are considered. (JN)