Low cost, open-source analytical instrumentation has the potential to increase educational outcomes for students and enable large-scale citizen science projects. Many of these instruments rely on smartphones to collect the data, mainly because they can effectively leverage a dramatic price-to-performance ratio of the optical sensors. However,…

As well as providing a valuable and enjoyable experience for pupils, outdoor learning also enhances and contextualises learning in science by helping pupils understand science concepts. Teachers' lack of confidence in which aspects of the science curriculum they can actually teach outdoors deters them from venturing outside the classroom for…

The green chemistry course taught at Westminster College (PA) incorporates nontraditional teaching techniques and texts to educate future chemists about the importance of using green chemistry principles. The course is designed to introduce green chemistry concepts and demonstrate their inherent necessity by discussing historical missteps by the…

We developed an interactive exercise to teach students how to draw the structures of the 20 standard amino acids and to identify the one-letter abbreviations by modifying the familiar game of "Hangman." Amino acid structures were used to represent single letters throughout the game. To provide additional practice in identifying…

The changeover of the Kenyan system of education from the 7-4-2-3 to the current 8-4-4 in 1984 made science subjects (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) compulsory to all students up to form two at the secondary school level. This meant increased numbers of students in one class at a time attending the science subjects, which may compromise quality.…

The number of students majoring in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) is declining due in part to a lack of student interest (Fairweather 2008; NRC 2012; PCAST 2010). One reason may be the difference between how science is done in school and how it is done in the field (Osborne, Simon, and Collins 2003). An interdisciplinary…

Describes a project where students visit, evaluate, and report on chemistry web sites. Discusses implementing the project, problems with the process, and results and rewards. Includes the evaluation form used and lists students' top chemistry sites. (JRH)

Describes a project that enables students to apply their chemical knowledge and business sense in a real-world activity. Involves forming companies that compete against each other to produce two pounds of the best quality soap. (JRH)

An extensive description of the Modeling Chemical and Biological Systems study organized in different practical projects is presented. The course has a highly favorable effect on students, who make perfect presentations, and it also encourages more students to join the course.

Discusses various methods the author has used in high school chemistry classes to maintain interest and keep grades at an acceptable standard. Integrated within the curriculum are research projects, library research, creative work, laboratory write-ups; a two-level curriculum is provided for nonscience and science majors. (CS)

Describes a chemistry program offered at East Mecklenburg High School in Charlotte, North Carolina. The philosophy underlying this program and its teaching techniques are also included. (HM)

Explained is an interdisciplinary assignment in which students use scientific knowledge and apply it in a practical situation. Provided is background information and precautions regarding safety procedures. (RT)

Science should not be presented as a collection of facts; it must be presented as an active dynamic subject. It should be used to stimulate young minds and encourage questioning. This is a publication designed to meet the needs of science teachers for a day-to-day reference in science. It was intended for the use of Peace Corps volunteers and…

Science should not be presented as a collection of facts; it must be presented as an active dynamic subject. It should be used to stimulate young minds and encourage questioning. This is a publication designed to meet the needs of science teachers for a day-to-day reference in science. It was intended for the use of Peace Corps volunteers and…

Science should not be presented as a collection of facts; it must be presented as an active dynamic subject. It should be used to stimulate young minds and encourage questioning. This is a publication designed to meet the needs of science teachers for a day-to-day reference in science. It was intended for the use of Peace Corps volunteers and…