This book attempts to reflect on the value and purpose of practical work as part of the science curriculum: why are practical exercises so necessary and what do they contribute to the science learning process? The chapters in this book examine issues such as: how practical work is perceived by students and teachers; the possibilities and perils of…

Presents examples of physics activities using common objects such as a tuning fork, umbrella (for double diffraction patterns), and a toy car. Provides questions designed to stimulate student curiosity/interest and which provide models for developing additional units on everyday objects and toys. (JM)

Describes an interdisciplinary, ornithology unit suitable for grades 4-6. Art, mathematics, language arts, and social studies activities require approximately 2 weeks to complete. An annotated list of six references is included. (JN)

Demonstrations, procedures, games, teaching suggestions and information on a variety of physics topics are presented, including hydraulic rams, units and formulae, static electric motors, a computer graphics program, diffraction, adaptation of a basic meter, photoelasticity, photo-diodes, radioactive decay, and analog-digital conversions. (DC)

Outlines a variety of laboratory procedures, demonstrations, and classroom materials including a technique for estimating speed of electromagnetic waves; a support for multipin components when soldering; use of dynometer to measure force; bending light; using a microcomputer to measure and produce voltage; force-distance curves; and two games. (DS)

Describes an interdisciplinary minicourse on dinosaur fossils, morphology, ethology, and energetics. Suggests and provides examples of hands-on activities for junior high school- through college-level students. (DS)

Describes equipment, activities, and experiments useful in chemistry instruction, including among others, a rapid method to determine available chlorine in bleach, simple flame testing apparatus, and a simple apparatus demonstrating the technique of flash photolysis. (SK)

Describes equipment, activities, and experiments useful in physics instruction, including among others, a list of articles relating to physics topics, computer interface that makes a computer cost effective, use of a guitar in vibrating string experiments, and photoelectric aids to the measurement of distance, speed, velocity, and acceleration.…

Described is an activity that incorporates a computer, geometry, algebra, trigonometry, and calculus to answer questions about the planet Mars. A possible crescent of Mars is compared to those of Venus and Mercury. (KR)

Reviewed are seven software packages for Apple and IBM computers. Included are: "Toxicology"; "Science Corner: Space Probe"; "Alcohol and Pregnancy"; "Science Tool Kit Plus"; Computer Investigations: Plant Growth"; "Climatrolls"; and "Animal Watch: Whales." (CW)

Described is a computer telecommunications network, MicroNet, which is used to deliver necessary coursework and support for teachers and a variety of enrichment activities for their students via distance learning. Discussed are computer telecommunications courses and middle-grade and high school use of the MicroNet system. (Author/CW)

Described are 22 activities which can be done by students outside of school. Topics include the seashore, shadows, restaurants, water, amusement parks, factories, museums, camping, weather, animals, photography, plants, food, and exercise. (CW)

Described are successful science activities which have been conducted on an international telecommunications network which links schools in the United States, Mexico, Japan, and Israel. Examined are several activities currently being developed. Reports an innovative way to involve a wide range of students in the scientific process. (MVL)

Describes a method of integrating a course syllabus with a field geological inventory of the surrounding area. Consists of three modules, each with a preparatory unit, field trip, and summary unit. Discusses first hand experiences, learning cycles, novelty factors, and moving from the concrete to abstract. (MVL)

Introduces three physics experiments for high school and college classes. Topics include measuring the ratio of heat capacities using a microcomputer and a glass syringe, producing large electric sparks using a variation of a Leyden bucket, and observing transmission line behavior using television signals. Includes descriptions of materials and…