The views of Piaget, Ausubel, and Bruner have been used to present an integrated view of biology lesson construction and to assist teachers in the design and development of tools and strategies to improve their teaching. The structure of an integrated model for biology lesson construction and an example of a biolesson using the metaparadigmatic…

Discussed is the search for life on other planets similar to Earth based on the Drake equation. Described are search strategies and microwave searches. The reasons why people are searching are also discussed. (KR)

Discussed is the physics that underpins Schuster's technique for obtaining a parallel light beam for use in various prism and grating experiments. Basic physics concepts using geometrical optics of prism, together with elementary differential calculus are explained as well as the mechanics of Schuster's technique. (KR)

Described is an activity in which students learn how a battery produces electricity, why at least one electrode is destroyed when electricity is produced, and how electrolytes and temperature affect the process. Needed materials and directions for building a battery are listed. (KR)

Presented is an in-class earth science activity on the weathering of rocks. The materials, procedures, and results of this activity are discussed. (CW)

Thirteen suggestions for student research projects are presented. Project topics include birds, fish, frogs or toads, insects, spiders, crustaceans, mammals, predators, and ecology. The teacher's role in managing student projects is discussed. A list of middle school textbook resources is provided. (KR)

Presented is a lesson in which students learn about characteristic traits of a species and variations within a species. Background information for teaching and assessing the lesson and topics for possible class discussions are provided. An activity in which students learn about traits and variations of themselves is included. (KR)

Various aspects of photography using both transmitted and reflected light microscopy are described. Microscope configuration, preparation of samples for photomicrography, and the use of black/white or color film are discussed. (KR)

Ways in which linear lesson sequences can be modified to provide increased opportunities for open-ended activities especially with problem solving are considered. Examples drawn from chemistry and plant reproduction, seeds, and germination are given. (KR)

Activities in which students determine the half-life of a substance using M&Ms, solve a crime using chromatography, and calculate the speed of a toy car are presented. The activities include the topic, an introduction, the time needed, a list of materials, safety precautions, procedure, analysis questions, and teacher's notes. (KR)

Described is a science fair project in which M- and X-class x-ray flares on the surface of the earth were detected using a Geiger counter. Background information, the problem, hypothesis, a list of needed materials, the procedure, observations, conclusions, and a critique are included. (KR)

Directions for the building of a pocket microscope that will make visible the details of insect structure and living bacteria are described. Background information on the history of microscopes and lenses is provided. The procedures for producing various types of lenses are included. (KR)

Suggestions and tips for novice and experienced eclipse watchers are provided. Discussed are the mysterious shadow bands that occur just minutes before an eclipse. Directions for building a deluxe pinhole projector for observing the eclipse, a reading list, and a glossary of related terms are included. (KR)

Presented is a way to measure the sun's radiation by using a radiometer. Directions for building both simple and complex radiometers, circuit diagrams, and an explanation on how they work are included. (KR)

A checklist is provided as a tool for an informal overview of the environmental education programs found in schools. The checklist includes the topics of administration, instructional activities, and the school system. Guidelines for development and use of environmental education materials, programs, and activities are also provided. (KR)