An introduction to the Quantum Chemistry Package (QCP), implemented in the computer algebra system Maple, is presented. The QCP combines sophisticated electronic structure methods and Maple's easy-to-use graphical interface to enable computation and visualization of the electronic energies and properties of molecules. Here we describe how the QCP…

This paper demonstrated a simple experiment for determining the coefficient of rolling friction of a hollow cylinder rolling on a curved track using a smartphone's sensors. We studied theoretically and experimentally the rolling motion of a hollow cylinder uncovered and covered with various materials (synthetic leather and sponge sheets). The…

Background: In England, practical work is a major part of secondary school science and yet little research has examined students' attitudes specifically to practical work. Purpose: To examine students' attitudes to practical work in biology chemistry and physics in secondary schools in England. Sample: The study involved 607 students from Year 7…

In this brief experiment, students create a superhydrophobic surface as an application of polar--nonpolar interactions and redox chemistry. Half of a zincgalvanized steel strip is coated in copper nanoparticles through electroless deposition. A layer of nonpolar octadecanethiol is added to half of that copper surface. Students classify the three…

The purpose of this study was to examine the views of secondary school science teachers regarding the inclusion of socio-scientific issues (SSI) in the curriculum, and the factors that may facilitate or impede their inclusion. A survey administered to 130 science teachers of different background and experiences. The findings revealed that science…

Although several reforms have shifted the direction of education, a debate on the strengths and limitations of science education in Kosovo has not yet been initiated. The present article analyses the development of chemistry education in Kosovo and encourages questions that could shape science education practices in general. In particular, the…

A laboratory activity is described for senior high school or first year undergraduate level students that illustrates key concepts linked to extractive metallurgy. This experiment demonstrates preferential binding of a methoxyphenolic oxime ligand to Cu[superscript 2+] in the presence of other transition metal ions in aqueous solution. The…

Knowing the volume of evolved gases is helpful to select an optimal leavening agent for a particular application. The comparison of leavening agents, their reactions through the baking process in the modern and attractive way, is presented here. A gas pressure sensor probe was used to monitor the pressure change due to the carbon dioxide produced…

A study was conducted on how scientific laboratory lessons contribute to building arguments, both cognitively and socially. The population consisted of 12 second-year pre-service teachers at a college of education specializing in the teaching of biology and chemistry in middle school. The study examines the nature of the arguments students raise…

This study explores the nature of classroom talk as a way of teaching physics implemented by newly trained teachers. Their training introduced them, among others, to sociocultural theory and the promotion of classroom talk as a deliberate teaching strategy. This study is framed by Mortimer and Scott's framework for productive classroom talk. Data…

In 1919, Eddington and Dyson led two famous expeditions to measure the bending of light during a total solar eclipse. The results of this effort led to the first experimental confirmation of Einstein's General Relativity and contributed to create its unique and enduring fame. Since then, similar experiments have been carried out all around the…

This sixth-form chemistry activity describes how students can use acid-base titrimetry to investigate how adding salt to the aqueous phase may change the value of the partition coefficient of an organic acid between water and 2-methylpropan-1-ol. While the presence of lithium chloride and sodium chloride increases the value of the partition…

Balanced science was a possible answer to a perceived need in England, Wales and Northern Ireland for students to study the three major science subjects up to age 16 without taking too large a proportion of curriculum time. Experience has shown that it is not a simple problem to solve, and this article describes various attempts going back several…

There is, broadly speaking, an agreement within the international science education community that comprehension of the nature of science (NOS) should be a key element in the scientific literacy of citizens. During the last few decades, several didactic approaches have emerged concerning what and how to teach NOS. Also, one of the basic objectives…

Teachers are eager for professional development on teaching evolution, especially if it includes direct ties to relevant curricula and detailed lesson plans. Howard Hughes Medical Institute's BioInteractive Online Professional Learning: Evolution course was developed to provide educators with free, in-depth, multimedia resources that highlight…