The importance of using effective communication and writing skills in science is discussed. Outlets for student essays are presented. Writing about hands-on experiences in the science classroom can improve science vocabulary as well as comprehension and critical thinking. (KR)

The subjects of reading and writing as they relate to various science topics and literary forms are discussed. Writing activities in which teachers can incorporate both language arts and science into the curriculum space and time requirement of one are described. Three forms of poetry are described. (KR)

Presented is a program where biochemistry students acquire hands-on experience through participation in an on-line computer literature search. The objectives of the program, example printouts, and a list of subtopics, authors, and sources used by students are included. (KR)

Provided is an outline of laboratory activities involving a full year of student investigations of natural-resource ecology and an example of an activity, "Home Range Analysis." Objectives, background information, key vocabulary, skills, materials, procedures, extension activities, and evaluation of this three-lesson activity are discussed. (CW)

Presented is an experiment where the concentrations of three metal ions in a solution are simultaneously determined by ultraviolet-vis spectroscopy. Availability of the computer program used for statistically analyzing data using a multivariate linear regression is listed. (KR)

Four brief articles highlighting the habits of spiders are provided. Habits discussed include web building, mating and egg sac care, eating and venom delivery, and the production and uses of spider silk. (CW)

Describes a computer program to teach the concepts that underpin genetic mapping using a three-point test cross. The program is used in a sophomore-level course for biology majors that presents a rigorous introduction to genetics. (PR)

Provides a series of questions for students to consider when observing construction sites. The thoughtful observations can help students with principles of science. (PR)

Describes an activity having students use a microscope to observe the "hooks" and "loops" found in Velcro and on the seeds of the cocklebur plant. (PR)

Describes a simple and inexpensive, one-period activity to extract DNA to make the study of DNA less abstract. A microscope titration is used to determine when cells are ready for DNA extraction. (PR)

Describes the structure, activities, responsibilities, and practices of animal care and use committees established to review classroom activities and student research using animals. Provides six hypothetical situations with suggested solutions to test a committee's decision-making ability. Includes a proposed activity form for teachers. (MDH)

Describes activities using worms for instruction in science and language arts. (PR)

Describes a field trip to Costa Rica by college students and an instructor in a tropical ecology course. (PR)

Describes an interesting field experiment examining the distribution and diversity of a single community using lichens and the animals living in them. Combining field experience and laboratory work reveals not only the biology of some unusual organisms, but also community ecology and diversity. (PR)

Proposes a science competition that stimulates student thinking and creativity in which groups of 4 students solve as many problems as possible in 30 minutes. Problems require students to make tools using only the materials provided. Provides materials in a sample tool kit, competition rules, and sample problems. (MDH)