Describes activities that test the preferences of stimuli of small insects such as light, sound, smell, and temperature. Experiments are carried out through the use of controlled and independent variables and a simple inexpensive apparatus. (DKM)

Presents an exercise that involves construction of a model by high school students to demonstrate respiratory mechanics. Engages students in interactive learning and stimulates interest for future science study. Challenges students and teachers to build, manipulate, and discuss their experience during the investigation of respiratory mechanics.…

Describes the construction of a simple launcher for plastic bottle rockets. (JRH)

Describes the construction of a sturdy earthworm box that can provide students with firsthand experience with earthworms. Presents activities that enable students to observe earthworms and discover how they enrich the soil. (JRH)

Presents a hands-on science activity in which students can explore interesting science concepts related to soap, light, and color. Includes materials, directions, and related questions. (SOE)

Explains student misconceptions of electricity. Presents a lesson plan on electricity that focuses on how to build a circuit and current flows in serial and parallel circuits. (YDS)

Describes the construction and use of a machine to demonstrate centripetal force. Includes a lab activity for use with the machine. (DDR)

Presents a strategy for teaching students about geological formations. Involves using topographic maps to build models for the classroom. (JRH)

Discusses the importance of involving students in assessing the risks versus the benefits of specific laboratory activities, completing accident/incident reports, and performing periodic safety inspections. Concludes that involving students enhances their awareness of both hazards and precautions that must be taken. Provides them another avenue…

Presents a checklist as a guide for preparing a set of safety rules that has been adapted from the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission's publication titled "School Science Laboratories: A Guide to Some Hazardous Substances". Addresses work habits; safety wear; facilities and equipment; purchasing, use, and disposal of chemicals; and…

Vernal pools are unique habitats that appear in springtime. Includes activity suggestions for both classroom and field studies related to vernal pools. (YDS)

Presents two activities--what humans need and global resource bank--that focus on developing an understanding among middle and high school students of the difference between wants and needs. (YDS)

Explains how to demonstrate to students that the relative dating of rock layers is redundant. Uses two column diagrams to simulate stratigraphic sequences from two different geological time scales and asks students to complete the time scale. (YDS)

Uses characters from "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone" to teach about human pedigrees and presents an activity demonstrating how traits are passed to offspring. (YDS)

Describes a demonstration using liquid nitrogen. The demonstration is based on a 500mL transparent polyethylene soft-drink bottle with a screw-on, pop-up drink top. (MM)