Surveyed 232 college students in an introductory biology course on their attitudes and perceptions on aspects of biology that they should have covered in high school science. Results indicated majority of students felt very or somewhat familiar with the topics covered in the survey. A sizable majority of students were only somewhat familiar with…

Garlic is an ideal plant for the elementary classroom. It grows rapidly in water without aeration for several weeks and remains relatively free of microbial contamination. Simple experiments with garlic purchased at grocery stores can illustrate various aspects of plant growth. (PR)

Describes the construction of a variety of inexpensive, escape-proof, and safe insect homes--each complete with window, ventilation screen, and cover--so students can observe firsthand the intriguing world of insects. (PR)

Describes hands-on physical anthropology activities for teaching students about evolution. Using evidence found in hominid skulls, students conduct investigations that involve calculating ratios. Eight full-page photographs of skulls from the program Stones and Bones are included. (PR)

Describes children's books, songs, and innovative activities for introducing students to paleontology and skeletal structures. (PR)

Presents a series of exercises to help students understand the importance of the limits of taxonomic keys and to identify the appropriate levels. Introductory activities include having students classify screws, "gummy bears," and beans. (PR)

Describes an approach to teaching the scientific method where an outbreak of cholera within the school is simulated. Students act like epidemiologists in an attempt to track down the source of the contamination. (PR)

Describes a unit of hands-on activities on the corrosion of iron and steel. The unit uses the learning cycle and the science/technology/society approach. Three activities are presented. (PR)

Describes bioluminescence and the chemistry of how it occurs. Presents information for conducting the following classroom activities: (1) firefly mimic; (2) modeling deep-sea fish; (3) sea fireflies; and (4) the chemistry of light. (PR)

Describes inexpensive and safe activities centered around the chemistry of effervescent products such as Alka-Seltzer. Activities demonstrate the following: water-induced reactions, the influence of humidity, temperature and rate of reaction, particle size and rate of reaction, concentration and rate of reaction, the neutralizing power of…

Discusses the following questions in choosing distance education courses: Will I be able to "talk" with the instructor? Will I be able to talk with other course participants? Does the course include laboratories or other hands-on experiences? What equipment will I need to participate? What technical assistance will be available? Who is the course…

Presents reasons why jargon should not be used in biology instruction. Argues that more hands-on science activities and relating learning to everyday living needs to occur in the science classroom. (PR)

Discusses how early childhood teachers can provide a classroom environment that puts into practice theories related to emerging literacy. Describes holistic strategies used in one kindergarten that enhance literacy learning, including shared book experiences, huddle groups, language samples, self-directed learning time, student-developed…

Presents a series of lessons that use Bloom's taxonomy of educational objectives to teach students the various levels of knowledge and how to form questions that address each level. (PR)

Describes an approach to using new technologies in online education that consciously uses the multiplicity of options that these technologies provide. Provides a case study of an online course in a master of education program and examines multiplicity in contexts for learning, instructional media, instructional formats, learning activities, and…