Proposes as a unifying theme for high school biology the question of "how chromosomes determine what we are." Describes a sequence of lessons in which students learn about proteins, enzymes, and amino acids. Includes three dry laboratory exercises to demonstrate the DNA sequences for sickle cell anemia and cystic fibrosis. (MDH)

Examination of controversial scientific issues provide an accurate picture of science. Examples, drawn from the physical and life sciences, show how complex and subtle scientific issues may be; how difficult it may be to perform and interpret experiments; and how science constitutes a vigorous, self-correcting mode of inquiry. (Contains 45…

Suggests that disinterest in physics occurs because students and adults can apply everyday concepts to solve problems without understanding the underlying physics concepts. Proposes Wagenschein's Exemplary-genetic Method to teach physics and illustrates the method with examples taken from history. (MDH)

Discusses misconceptions and outdated models appearing in biology textbooks for concepts involving bioenergetics and chemical reactions; adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as the energy currency of cells; the myth of high energy phosphate bonds; structural properties of ATP; ATP production from respiration and fermentation; ATP as an energy storage…

Describes a one-week, cooperative-learning assignment in which students design their own space stations. (PR)

Describes a Science Activities Contract program. Students agree to do four activities at home, and their parents agree to encourage and supervise the children in completing the activities. (PR)

This study identified five categories of factors that inhibit science teaching effectiveness by bringing stress on science teachers: student characteristics; teacher characteristics; school environment; administrative procedures; and conditions of service. Coping strategies to relieve stress are provided. (Contains 29 references.) (MDH)

Lack of student use of critical thinking operations can lead to faulty argumentation in discussing societal issues. Presents 12 common fallacies in student argumentation and discusses their implications for science education. (Contains 51 references.) (MDH)

Explores high school student's postinstructional knowledge about mass, volume, weight, and density in terms of what students need to know to successfully solve academic physical science problems. Presents definitions of the concepts, discusses hypothesized knowledge deficiencies, and suggests implications for instructional design. (Contains 31…

Describes the use of Vee maps in helping students understand scientific investigations. (PR)

Presents an activity in which students in grades 5-8 learn about snail reproduction by observing and charting the activities of land snails, freshwater snails, and slugs. Instructions to implement and extend the activity are provided. (MDH)

Describes two curriculum approaches used at a college as an alternative to traditional introductory science-survey courses. The first course is entitled "Nature of Science" and the second is "Current Research." (PR)

Describes an activity to simulate the geometries of a spreading pathogen such as HIV throughout a generation. Students exchange "bodily fluids" three times and are then tested for the presence of "infection." Materials used include base solutions (NaOH or KOH), phenolphthalein (pH indicator), clear plastic cups, and an eye dropper. (PR)

Describes an easy and inexpensive method of preparing experimental growth media that high school students can use for plant cloning investigations. (PR)

Describes enrichment activities in which students read selections from science trade books and perform hands-on science activities related to the readings. Suggests four readings and related activities involving trees, robots, spiders, and birds. (Contains 13 references.) (MDH)