Defines and discusses activated complexes, transition species, and reaction intermediates in composite reactions. Stresses the importance of the precise use of language in science. (CW)

Proposes a series of experiments that integrate analytical techniques in order that students are able to compare, based on their laboratory results, the relative reliabilities of the most common therapeutic drug monitoring methods. Discusses materials, procedures, and results of three experiments on the determination of drug concentration by…

Describes a simple, inexpensive experiment in which students determine the heats of combustion of common solid, liquid, and gaseous fuels. The experimental apparatus, procedures, calculations and results are discussed. (CW)

Examines preconceptions regarding several implicit vector characteristics that 15- to 17-year-old students possess just before taking their first physics course. Shows seven vector characteristics and three tasks for interviewing students. Presents the most common student preconceptions regarding each of the implicit vector characteristics. (YP)

Cognitive, social, and organizational problems put some groups at a disadvantage in learning mathematics, science, and technology. Recent programs and policies have begun to improve these inequalities. Minorities and women can benefit from long-term programs that help them to recontextualize information, reduce their anxiety, and spend more time…

Outlines the evolution of thinking and the development of materials related to the biological component of the Science Education Project. Examines the context of the project within Southern African society and its relationship to curriculum development theory. Discusses possible models for the dissemination of knowledge. (RT)

Discusses a unicellular component of hytoplankton that can easily be collected and studied in the classroom. Describes how to construct and use a diatometer. Suggests activities that can be done with diatoas collected outdoors or grown in an aquarium. (CW)

Describes the National Science Teachers Association's Every Teacher a Researcher (ETR) program as a way for teachers to get involved in research on the use of science laboratories. Includes a general description of the program and an application form. (CW)

Presents a hands-on activity to help primary, intermediate, and advanced students learn about and compare the general characteristics of reptiles and amphibians. Suggests "herp stations" to provide experiences. Details materials, background and procedures necessary for using this activity. (CW)

Reports on the development of science curricula projects. Lists features that can be applied to programs developed at the local level. Includes programs from the Biological Sciences Curriculum Study, Educational Development Center, and Technical Education Research Centers. (RT)

Describes eight experiments involving the use of common consumer products that could be incorporated into quantitative and instrumental analysis laboratories. Discusses these activities in terms of illustration of principles, awareness, and critical thinking. (CW)

Discusses the incorporation of environmental chemistry topics into the traditional high school chemistry curriculum. Describes and provides lesson plans for the sulfur cycle and acid rain, and radioactivity and nuclear energy. Considers possible laboratory experiments. (CW)

Presents investigations to explore the substrate specificity, pH, concentration, and temperature relations of an enzyme with only inexpensive commercial rennet and basic laboratory equipment. Describes how the activities were carried out with a group of 15-year-old students. (CW)

Describes a course offered at Polytechnic University (New York) which is designed to provide an introduction to professional engineerig ethics as presented through the history of engineering, codes of conduct of professional societies, case studies and hypothetical situations. (TW)

Describes a demonstration of a practical application of electrochemistry. Discusses the set-up, materials, and theatrical attributes of this demonstration. (CW)