Examines the relationship of the amount of available short-term memory with the complexity of tasks the subjects mastered. Presents some hints for a better design of instruction. (YP)

Described are five activities using crayons to demonstrate the rock cycle including weathering, erosion and sedimentation, and sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rock formation. Discussed are materials, procedures, and probable results. (CW)

Described is an exercise which examines the effect of reading aloud a technical passage of science material while the heart is monitored by a computer. The experimental setup, design, and data analysis are discussed. (CW)

Described are two activities designed to help children investigate electrical charges, electric meters, and electromagnets. Included are background information, a list of materials, procedures, and follow-up questions. Sources of additional information are cited. (CW)

Discusses the sociohistorical approach to tools and change. Explores the possibilities of computer-supported cooperative work. Discusses formative experiments on the educational environment as research opportunities. Illustrates the organizational impact of school technology by describing a project intended to create an environment for…

The impact and uses of new technologies in science teaching are discussed. Included are computers, software, sensors, integrated circuits, computer signal access, and computer interfaces. Uses and advantages of these new technologies are suggested. (CW)

Provided are hands-on activities on light, simulated emission, light radiation, and common uses of lasers. Directions and materials are discussed. Included is a diagram of a laser model. (CW)

Described is an approach that uses a computer spreadsheet program to calculate entropy change at constant temperature and pressure. The calculated values can be used in an associated graphing program. (CW)

The apparatus, reagents, preliminary classification, nomenclature, acquisition, and procedures used in the identification of synthetic polymers are described. Specific tests for the identification of the presence of hydrocarbons, chlorine, fluorine, sulfur, and nitrogen and the absence of halogens and sulfur are discussed. (CW)

The assembly and use of an Ostwald-type of viscometer from readily available materials is illustrated. Sample data and a schematic of the apparatus are provided. (CW)

Presented is a demonstration in which students are shown an objective view of the role of animals through the analysis of books about ecosystems. The book analysis method and lists of books about wetlands and terrestrial ecosystems are included. (CW)

Describes three demonstrations showing chaotic motion, which makes long-term prediction impossible. Discusses the apparatus for the demonstrations and procedures for illustrating chaotic motion of pendulum, balls rolling in a double potential well, and a ball rolling on a balanced beam. (YP)

Describes ways to increase students' writing and communication skills in high school chemistry and physics classes: term papers in chemistry, shorter papers on fascinating physics questions, and oral presentation of the results. (SR)

Presents four stories on humane education that can be used with lessons. Provides directions, teacher notes, and story cards on copyable sheets for students. (RT)

Summarizes the evaluation of computer software presented in "The Physics Teacher" since 1984. Describes several programs for integrating courseware use into classes including "TimeLog" for a message/bulletin board, Control Data "Physics 1" for problem solving, some demonstration programs, and "Physics Laboratory Programs" for programing skills.…