Provides a framework for objectively selecting a biology textbook based upon credible recommendations from the professional literature. This framework especially draws from recent research findings in science, learning theory, and instruction. (Contains 25 references.) (PR)

Describes activities to help students overcome "microbe phobia" through "kitchen microbiology." Directions for making yogurt, sauerkraut, and root beer are provided. (PR)

Describes procedures for identifying the protein ribonuclease from plant tissue extracts using mini-gel electrophoresis. (PR)

Describes approaches and benefits of having students make observations and inferences from tracking-pattern diagrams and actual tracks made in sandboxes. (PR)

Describes an exercise where a team of students constructs a scale map of objects located on their laboratory tabletop. Another group then tries to reorient the objects to fit the groups map. This leads to a discussion concerning the aspects of good and bad maps. (PR)

Explains how fur color in domestic cats can be used as the basis of a science laboratory activity to teach the Castle-Hardy-Weinberg Law. (PR)

Focuses on identifying the educational effects of "activity oriented" instructional techniques. Examines which instructional methods produce enhanced learning and comprehension. Discusses the problem of learning "sorting algorithms," a major topic in every Computer Science curriculum. Presents a low-tech, hands-on teaching method for sorting…

Describes and evaluates a technology source, Strategic Teaching Framework (STF), to support elementary school teachers in adopting a situated, constructivist approach to teaching mathematics. Presents three case studies of teachers as well as a cross-case analysis. Discusses changes in teaching practices and the conceptualization of those changes.…

Describes the development of the Statement of Relevance (SOR) for facilitating reflective learning. Discusses issues concerned with their use for assessment and outlines advantages of SORs, including the transferability of learning, encouraging students to take ownership of their learning, developing skills of reflection, and raising the value of…

Examines research indicating that while homework assigned at the middle school level does improve achievement, homework in the lower grades appears to undermine children's school attitudes and to have little effect on their school performance. Suggests goals and characteristics of useful homework assignments. (HTH)

Argues that the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a useful tool to help teachers understand their students' differences and learning preferences. Describes the use of the MBTI at a Catholic elementary school and a related project to link the appreciation of differences to a field trip to a flower show. (MAB)

Presents activities for use during and after nature walks to help young children learn about trees. (PR)

Presents two activities designed to show students some interesting characteristics of weeds. (PR)

Presents simple outdoor activities to show students some characteristics of grasses. (PR)

Explains the scanning, tunneling microscope and its use in high school science instruction. (PR)