Discusses a successfully implemented laboratory experiment that compares the strengths and weaknesses of mechanical and computer models. The computer models used are available from the Quantum Chemistry Program Exchange (QCPE) at a modest price. (JN)

Presents results of a two-year study regarding factors causing student difficulties in performing investigative activities in a beginning biology course. Also investigates the usefulness of written guidelines in alleviating these difficulties. A model for student investigations is proposed. (CS)

The concept of controlled experimentation is a skill that all students leaving high school should master. Teachers often attempt to find exciting and fun methods to expose students to this valuable skill. This science activity guide allows students to construct model rockets in an attempt to improve their abilities to conduct controlled…

Describes a physics experiment which demonstrates the pitfalls of assuming that a model which represents an ideal system is applicable to a real experiment. Explains how the failure may give greater understanding of the problem and may lead to improvements in the model. (ML)

Describes a computer simulation to elucidate the subject of coherence. The model on which simulation is based links coherence to the correlation of fields. It also describes the model and presents some results. (Author/GA)

Describes a two-hour physics laboratory experiment modeling the phenomena of eclipsing binary stars developed by the Air Force Academy as part of a week-long laboratory-oriented experience for visiting high school students. (BT)

Presents a simple experiment--a marble rolling on a tilted desk--to introduce students to moving bodies. Makes difficult subjects such as measurement, calculus, modeling, and uncertainty easier to identify by putting them into a simple context. Discusses misconceptions, models, and measurements. (JRH)

Presents a detailed discussion of the "Drinking Duck" toy and its use to illustrate scientific and technical issues in thermodynamics. Numerous illustrations and equations are included. (MA)

Describes four cases for which simulation techniques can be used to analyze the kinetics of the chemical system. Included are series first-order and enzyme kinetics. (MA)

Background information, procedures, and results are presented for experiments on the pyridoxal/metal ion model system. These experiments illustrate catalysis through Schiff's base formation between aldehydes/ketones and primary amines, catalysis by metal ions, and the predictable manner in which metal ions inhibit or catalyze reactions. (JN)

Discusses instructional strategies and activities designed to help students learn to recognize patterns and to create models to explain patterns. These include laboratory investigations and an exercise in which students are challenged to find the model used for the classroom seating arrangement. (JN)

Describes a theoretical development to explain the shadow patterns of an object exposed to an extended light source while held at varying distances from a screen. The theoretical model is found to be accurate in comparison with experimental results. (MDH)

Various research studies designed to enhance knowledge about the earth's core are discussed. Areas addressed include: (1) the discovery of the earth's core; (2) experimental approaches used in studying the earth's core (including shock-wave experiments and experiments at high static pressures), the search for the core's light elements, the…

Describes a laboratory investigation designed to analyze surface area to volume ratio related to cell division. Uses agar-gel "cells" with pH indicator added which are then "fed" acid for a measured time. Discusses procedures and materials used, providing a sample data table and important guiding questions. (JM)