Alternatives to the traditional unknown tests that permit a clear and unequivocal differential identification decision between Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus megaterium are presented. Plates of Phenylethyl Alcohol agar with Blood (PEAB), slants of Bile Esculin agar and plates of DNA agar are used. The materials, methods, results, and conclusions…

Describes wetlands and explains their importance to man and ecology. Delineates the role of water in wetlands. Describes how wetlands are classified: estuarine, riverine, lacustrine, palustrine, and marine. Accompanying article is a large, color poster on wetlands. Describes an activity where metaphors are used to explore the functions of…

Presents instructions to build a device that helps students see the effects of the ultraviolet radiation around them. Suggests ways to utilize the device. (MDH)

The forward force of water on a hose is calculated using only the pressure gradient, the radius and length of the hose. The misconception about recoil on the nozzle is discussed. Dissipation energy and the consequent heat generation in a fluid flow are also described. (KR)

The union of sophisticated computer and digital technology with musical instruments made out of recycled materials is discussed. Directions for making the instruments and interfacing the instruments with other equipment are included. Tuning of the instruments, customizing sounds, and sound processing are described. (KR)

Activities that consider the courtship behavior and mating patterns of millipedes are presented. The functional significance of a behavior that has evolved through indirect competition between males is discussed. The procedures for seven experiments, results, and interpretations are included. (KR)

An activity simulating natural selection in which wild birds are predators, green and brown pastry "baits" are prey, and trays containing colored stones as the backgrounds is presented. Two different methods of measuring selection are used to describe the results. The materials and methods, results, and discussion are included. (KR)

A physical science activity that helps students understand biological adaptation is described. The ease with which something can move through its surroundings depends on its shape. This idea is presented using different shapes of paper and bars of soap. These shapes are then compared with the shapes of fish. (KR)

Discusses the four critical characteristics of a teaching style which offers hands-on science experiences in the outdoors that lead to writing activities. Provides examples from the Alaska Writing Program which is modeled after the Bay Area Writing Project. (MG)

Describes an activity to determine whether the length of the yellow (warning) signal of a traffic light provides adequate time to stop or pass through the intersection. Discusses the necessary equations, mathematics, and subsequent graphs. (MVL)

Describes the nineteenth-century parlor trick entitled the Fluttering Heart phenomenon which uses a red heart on a bright blue background. Discusses theories concerning the apparent fluttering. Suggests doing the trick with a red light-emitting diode in a darkened room. (MVL)

Describes the use of entomopathogenic bacteria for use in teaching general microbiology. (PR)

Describes a hands-on activity in which the student's task is to design testing procedures and use appropriate formulas to meet the objectives of a two-dimensional projectile motion lab. (ZWH)

Offers useful tips for teachers engaging students in classroom science activities. Emphasis is placed on creating and maintaining a learning environment that is conducive to all students learning. (ZWH)

Presents procedures for student-guided critical analyses of current topics in biology. (ZWH)