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)

Describes science activities which use simple chemical tests to distinguish between materials and to determine some of their properties. Explains the water, iodine, heat, acid, baking soda, acid/base indicator, glucose, and sugar tests. Includes activities to enhance chemical testing and a list of suggested powders for use. (RT)

Investigates a case study in the state of Qatar to find the interaction effect between an engineering laboratory and the community. Presents the results of two questionnaires for faculty members and engineers. Reports awareness and willingness to participate in a cooperative program, current lack of communication and inadequate laboratory…

Provides the methodology put forth by Moore and Kraus to separate Co++ from Ni++ in an 8M HCl solution. Notes that cobalt(II) forms a wide variety of anionic complexes. Points out that as the solutions leave the exchange column the color bands of green, blue, and pink are easily seen. (MVL)

Reviewed is some of the experimental evidence for apostatic selection from work with artificial prey. Guidelines for further experiments are suggested including experimental design, analysis, variables, and selection in the wild. (Author/CW)

Presents a method which introduces biology students to some fundamental aspects of scientific methodology. Explains simple muscle testing procedures, a historical perspective, experimental variables, pedagogical uses, and possible mechanisms of the muscle response phenomenon action. (RT)

The ideas behind electrophilic addition to alkenes, and electrophilic substitution in benzene derivatives are discussed. Teaching these concepts to secondary school students is stressed. Five main points useful at this age level are summarized. (Author/CW)

Findings are presented from a study of the effectiveness of a training program designed to increase nonverbal expressiveness, during expository teaching/lecturing, in the nonverbal channels: voice delivery, eye expression, gaze, facial expression, gesturing, posture, and movement. The program includes laboratory practice sessions, characterized by…

Describes a variety of approaches for forming partnerships among high schools, universities, and industries for solving the problems that face precollege science education. (YP)

Discusses the calculation of free energy in reactions between silicon dioxide and carbon. Describes several computer programs for calculating the free energy minimization and their uses in chemistry classrooms. Lists 16 references. (YP)

Describes an exhibit in the U.S.S.R. sponsored by the U.S. Information Agency which is designed to show the use of technology at home, school, and the office in the United States. Also discussed are the use of computers in Soviet schools; Soviet curriculum; and use of the computer laboratory in the exhibit by Soviet students and teachers. (five…

Explains the operation of five relative humidity sensors: psychrometer, hair hygrometer, resistance hygrometer, capacitance hygrometer, and resistance-capacitance hygrometer. Outlines the theory behind the electronic sensors and gives computer interfacing information. Lists sensor responses for calibration. (MVL)

This article suggests additional possibilities for reconceptualist thought, which is characterized by an experimental bent and a disdain for orthodoxy, as well as new venues for action. Possible contributions by reconceptualists to issues of curricular reform, experimental schools, education courses and preservice teacher education are discussed.…

Presents a case study of the teaching practices of a biology teacher in Western Australia. Identifies practices considered exemplary for analysis by biology teachers and teacher educators. Discusses the methodology of the study and the qualities of exemplary teaching. (CW)

Presents an overview of 15 laboratory exercises used in an experimental ecology laboratory. Stresses that these exercises require no field work by students and are geared toward testing hypotheses. Suggests the use of these exercises in high school as well as college. (CW)