Findings from a study of California high school physics teachers and students show positive correlations between student perceptions of physics and (1) extent of teacher subject matter preparations, (2) teacher association with other physics teachers, (3) inclusion of historical, social, and political aspects of physics in course objective, and…

Presents the procedures, results, and conclusions of a study designed to determine (1) student's understanding of science and (2) ability to think critically. Subjects were 791 graduating high school students in South Australian schools. No differences in the learning outcomes were found for students attending four types of schools. Bibliography.…

Argues that the traditional chemistry laboratory manual is not inherently a cookbook and the modern course manual does not automatically eliminate the cookbook approach. Suggests that it is the nature of the teacher guidance that students receive before, after, and during the laboratory work that makes a chemistry program meaningful and effective.…

Describes an organic chemistry experiment suitable for high school students in second year or an advanced chemistry course. The techniques for the extraction and purification of caffeine from various household materials are described. Further experimentation with the extracted caffeine is suggested. (LC)