A problem-solving experiment is a learning activity that uses experimental design to solve an authentic problem. It combines two evidence-based teaching strategies: problem-based learning and inquiry-based learning. The use of problem-based learning and scientific inquiry as an effective pedagogical tool in the science classroom has been well…

Whole-class inquiry (WCI) assessments range from challenging, paper-and-pencil puzzles to lab-based problems that require students to apply their own gathered data to a new scenario; the latter might also require students to perform a lab with new parameters, or to answer a question using data from a previous lab. In this article, the authors…

Teacher research--often called "action research"--is an intentional and systematic inquiry into one's own classroom practice with the goal of improved student learning (Cochran-Smith and Lytle 1993). In this article, the authors present a teacher research project undertaken to improve student understanding of the gas laws in a high…

Introduces a chemistry lab activity that is suitable for almost any level of science class. Provides students with five solutions and asks them to determine if they have five distinct compounds or if any are the same. (YDS)

Reexamines an experiment in which the volumetric fraction of oxygen in air was supposed to have been determined. Presents challenges to the procedure. (DDR)

Introduces an activity in which students design and experiment to determine the mass of a sample of copper without using a balance. Uses water displacement to find the mass of copper. (YDS)

Details a lesson that utilizes trigonometric identities to determine the optimal angle between the atoms of covalent bonds. Generates a proof of the optimal angle for a molecule with four identical atoms bonded to a central atom that has a complete valence shell. (DDR)

Presents an open-ended experiment which has students exploring polymer chemistry and reverse osmosis. This activity involves construction of a polymer membrane, use of it in a simple osmosis experiment, and application of its principles in solving a science-technology-society problem. (ML)

Introduces the American Renaissance in Science Education (ARISE) project. Discusses factors influencing the project's success. (YDS)

A survey of 167 chemistry professors was conducted to answer this question. Results pointed toward more concentration on mastery of basic concepts such as stoichiometry and problem solving while striving for greater relevancy to current societal problems. (CP)

Presents a science experiment in which students test the buffering capacity of household products such as shampoo, hand lotion, fizzies candy, and cola. Lists the standards addressed in this experiment and gives an example of a student lab write-up. (YDS)

Presents three problems based on the price of aluminum designed to encourage students to be cooperative and to use an investigative approach to learning. Students collect and synthesize information, analyze results, and draw conclusions. (AIM)

Describes an open-ended, inquiry-based chemistry lab in which students design and construct snow globes. Encourages the development of problem solving skills. (DDR)

Describes design-based science, which aims to develop useful skills for a wide range of actual problem-solving situations involving science. Discusses units of design activities concerning the voltage and lifetime of batteries and the potential in science education. (KHR)

Activities that show students a practical use for chemistry using common items such as food products, pharmaceuticals, and household products as sources of chemical compounds are presented. The importance of having adequate resource materials available for students is emphasized. (KR)