Investigates whether replacing a single traditional laboratory activity with a widely-used, non-microcomputer-based laboratory, research-based activity could produce improved conceptual understanding of a topic in electricity. Shows that a single instructional experience utilizing the research-based tutorial materials is superior to a traditional…

Reviews the origin of problem based learning (PBL) and variations of PBL. Suggests that PBL is simply one way of case study learning. (Author/KHR)

Describes an integrated unit on bats and specifically addresses the National Science Education Standards. (Author/KHR)

A number of hands-on science activities are suggested to acquaint children with the variety and properties of polymers. Common polymers are listed; individual and group activities are described; and a reproducible worksheet is included. (IAH)

This article provides information on the evolution of the building material, concrete, and suggests hands-on activities that allow students to experience concrete's qualities, test the heat absorbency of various ground surface materials, discover how an area's geology changes, and search for city fossils. A reproducible activity sheet is included.…

Described is an experiment which illustrates pseudo-first-order kinetics in the fading of a common indicator in an alkaline solution. Included are background information, details of materials used, laboratory procedures, and sample results. (CW)

Describes a method of organizing and handling senior undergraduate thesis projects. Discusses the benefits and disadvantages of conducting them. (YP)

Presents activities that focus on shadows to teach about seasonal changes and the earth's tilting axis. Includes suggestions for indoor discussions, diagrams, and models, and for outdoor observations and measurements of shadows. (SV)

Describes an experiment producing a visible spectrum with inexpensive equipment available in the physics classroom. Discusses some related equations, apparatus settings, and instructional methods. (YP)

Described is an activity in which students are able to determine that DNA can be transferred between bacteria and should be able to predict the type of DNA transferred. Methods, materials, and results are discussed. (CW)

This article describes how pasteurized milk can act as a growth medium for bacteria and provide an ecosystem for scientific inquiry. Included are objectives, materials, procedures, questions and a discussion of expected results. (CW)

Discusses a demonstration of vertical collision of two balls. Shows the theoretical height ratio using mathematical expression and diagrams. Compares it with researchers' experimental results. Expands the two-ball collision to multi-ball system. (YP)

Describes a demonstration on the stability of a ladder. Provides the demonstration method, diagram showing forces acting on a ladder, and three demonstration pictures. (YP)

Provides historical background, descriptions, uses and basis for identification of diatoms. Explains collection, dry-mount cleaning, and preparation procedures of the algae. Cites additional resources. (RT)

Highlights science activities that focus on rivers. Describes how students can create model rivers in small pans and suggests activities to use with children when visiting rivers. Also annotates four children's books that have rivers as a major theme or plot component. (MDM)