Presents 26 activities, experiments, demonstrations, games, and computer programs for biology, chemistry, and physics. Background information, laboratory procedures, equipment lists, and instructional strategies are given. Topics include eye measurements, nutrition, soil test tube rack, population dynamics, angular momentum, transition metals,…

Background information, procedures used, and typical results obtained are provided for experiments in which caterpillars are used to investigate energy-flow relationships. Areas in which the experiments could be used include ecology, applied biology, and animal feeding. (DH)

Indicates that the most dangerous laboratory hazards are the least dramatic ones and that hazardous chemicals are often used in laboratories without proper precautions. Selected sources of information essential for secondary schools and recommendations for safe practices and chemical use statistics from a study of Ohio high schools are given. (DH)

A simple oxygen-collecting device (easily constructed from glass jars and a lid) can show bubbles released by water plants during photosynthesis. Suggestions are given for: (1) testing the collected gas; (2) using various carbon dioxide sources; and (3) measuring respiration. (DH)

Describes a general purpose microcomputer-based system designed to support small-scale experimentation in the physical sciences in student laboratories. System requirements, teacher reactions, and educational implications are discussed; design criteria are established; and examples are given of the system's application to some simple experiments.…

Offers guidelines and suggests activities that can introduce middle school students to the process and principles of chromatography in an inexpensive and safe manner. Proposes that experiences with Kool-aid and food coloring chromatography can provide insights into how scientists think, work, and communicate. (ML)

Offers an alternative to kymography systems for undergraduates in physiology courses. Explains how an easy-to-build transducer can be used for recording diverse physiological phenomena. Reviews the theory of transducer function and explains the performance of the microcomputer kymography. (ML)

Describes an experimental procedure to measure the specific heat of a gas. Discusses equipment, setup, and procedures and provides sample values obtained for air, propane, helium, carbon dioxide, and argon. (JM)

Presents a classroom experiment that demonstrates the directional sensitivity of the human ear. Outlines the activity's procedures and provides a diagrammatical view of the experimental arrangement. Also included is an analysis of the expected results. (ML)

Clarifies appropriateness of certain simulation approaches by distinguishing between different types of simulations--experimental, predictive, evaluative, and educational--on the basis of purpose, assumptions, procedures, and criteria for evaluating. The kinds of questions each type best responds to are discussed. (65 references) (MBR)

Describes a physical chemistry experiment which incorporates the use of a microcomputer to enhance understanding of combined kinetic and equilibrium phenomena, to increase experimental capabilities when working with large numbers of students and limited equipment, and for the student to develop a better understanding of experimental design. (JN)

Presents information on the population density, breeding biology, habitats, and food of the magpie bird ("Pica pica"). Suggests and outlines several student projects that have been beneficial in teaching animal behavior and ecology. These investigations focus on diet, territory size, and food hoarding. (DH)

Presents two lesson plans for: (1) a long-term project where students use simple materials to investigate a nearby aquatic habitat; and (2) hay infusions (jars with water and hay), one of which receives a plant fertilizer. (DH)

Reports on the colors observed during titrations of 15 natural indicators obtained from common fruits and vegetables. These edible indicators can be used for a variety of teacher demonstrations or for simple student experiments. (JN)

Describes an experiment in which students become familiar with the organic chemistry extraction process, perform analyses by thin layer and column chromatography, and use the absorption spectrum (obtained from a spectrophotometer) for identification. List of materials needed and procedures used are provided. (JN)