Describes the science of hair analysis and its use in the solution of crimes. Methods of analysis and genetic and environmental characteristics which can be inferred are presented. (CP)

The author discusses how plumes of smoke in the air can give us an indication of how atmospheric temperature varies with height. (MN)

A short history of Newton's work in optics, mathematics, and astronomy. (BB)

A teacher of visually handicapped students at the upper elementary level describes a lesson plan from a creative science program which involves students in a model experiment about plant growth. (CL)

Described is a student preparation of YBa2Cu3O8-x, a classroom demonstration of its superconductivity, and an analytical chemistry experiment dealing with the oxidation state of copper in the material. (RH)

Described is a workshop for grades 5-8 school teachers and students related to synthetic polymers. Participants become familiar with polymer theory and practice experiments they can use in class. Sources of materials used in the workshop are listed. (RH)

Gives illustrated directions for five brain-teaser activities/experiments utilizing the sun shining into the classroom: sun shadow lines, analemma, hot-boxes, and solar crafts. (NEC)

The slime mold Physarum polycephalum provides an easily maintained classroom plant which can act like an animal. Directions are given for: acquiring the organism; activating it; observing its life cycle; and viewing protoplasmic streaming. (DH)

Tree frogs are small (2-5 cm) animals which not only interest students but also can be maintained in classrooms for a few days. Characteristics (species, ranges, habitat, reproductive cycle, and locomotion) and housing/care needs are described. Long-term maintenance is not recommended due to the difficulty of providing live food. (DH)

Presents a laboratory exercise designed to introduce graphical extrapolation. Major advantages of the method are in its simplicity and speed. The only measuring devices are a centimeter ruler and a micrometer caliper to check wall thickness. (JN)

Describes science activities which have been successful with nonscience majors. Each activity requires students to make observations, record the data gathered, interpret data, and prepare a written report. Subject areas include motion of stars, sunspots, lunar orbits, sunset points, meteor showers, and sun shadows. (JN)

Provides procedures for a simple laboratory activity on exponential growth and its characteristic doubling time. The equipment needed consists of a large plastic bucket, an eyedropper, a stopwatch, an assortment of containers and graduated cylinders, and a supply of water. (JN)

Discusses how to stop a spinning object (such as rotating fan blades) by humming and the perception of curious blue arcs around a light. Background information, relevant research, and activities related to these two topics are provided. (JN)

Presented is the index to the January-December 1976 issues of The Science Teacher (Volume 43). Both author and title indexes are included. (SL)