Because of the slow pace of astronomical events, their visibility only at night, and the inability to perform much normal experimental work, there is particular pressure to find justifiable activities for pupils during astronomy lessons. This article is intended to provide direct help to teachers in coping with this problem. (15 references)…

Provides background and instructions for the assembly of a microaquarium, or specimen cell, in which the dynamic world of living microorganisms can be viewed through a microscope overextended periods of time utilizing the simplest of materials in the process. (JJK)

This article describes different techniques used to measure air flow velocity. The two methods used were Crawford's Wastebasket and a video camera. The results were analyzed and compared to the air flow velocity predicted by Bernoulli's principle. (ZWH)

Describes how teachers and students can construct a mass, spring scale, lever, and pulley. (ZWH)

Describes an alternative to studying plant community composition and dynamics. Suggests that teachers and students collect soil samples containing buried seeds (the seed bank), germinate the seeds in the laboratory, and analyze community dynamics through the composition of the seed bank. (ZWH)

Describes an activity that uses a simple classroom experiment to measure the amount of carbon dioxide in air samples. (ZWH)

Discusses the use of a National Energy Foundation (NEF) poster, "Rocks and Minerals and How to Use Them." The poster is designed to increase student awareness of the part that minerals play in their daily lives. Information about the NEF and poster availability is provided. (MDH)

Described is a cooperative content study group approach to learning that minimizes individual student memorization and maximizes student interaction. Directions for preparing instructional materials and implementing cooperative home teams, a sample home team worksheet, sample test and study items, and hints and suggestions are included. (KR)

Heavily ionizing charged particles produce radiation damage tracks in a wide variety of insulating materials. The experimental properties of these tracks and track recorders are described. The mechanisms by which the tracks are produced are discussed. (Author/KR)

A principle is presented to show that, if the time of passage of light is expressible as a function of discrete variables, one may dispense with the more general method of the calculus of variations. The calculus of variations and the alternative are described. The phenomenon of mirage is discussed. (Author/KR)

Uses diagrams and text to describe four activities involving trees designed to aid students in better understanding responses to seasonal changes (ZWH)

Explains the procedures used to determine the regulatory properties of yeast pyruvate kinase. Involves a partial purification using PEG precipitation that can be done in one laboratory period with simple equipment. (DDR)

Presents an activity that stresses the role of fungi and decomposers, highlights the rapidity by which they complete this process, and allows students to experiment with ways to control the rate of decomposition. (CCM)

Focuses on three habits associated with personal values and attitudes, and one habit associated with social skills of doing science. Illustrates four habits of mind, first through a story of modern scientific investigation, then as the basis of school laboratory science experience. Discusses implications related to integration of these four habits…

Describes a simple and inexpensive procedure for constructing a circuit element that will allow for continuously variable and precisely controllable low direct-current voltages. (WRM)