Presents a sample HyperQuiz, a strictly-for-fun, genius trapping contest for occasions when the syllabus and coverage do not bear down too severely. Promotes collaboration between students, library research, and development of scientific thinking skills. (JRH)

Uses change (mostly pennies) in a one-liter plastic soda bottle to get students to practice estimation skills and creative thinking in an effort to determine the amount of money in the bottle. (MVL)

A real problem from the everyday world is presented. Students are asked to estimate the distance between two planes using a photograph taken by a passenger on one of the planes. The process used to solve the problem and possible errors encountered are discussed. (KR)

A real world sample of actual data that students can use to see the application of the Hardy-Weinberg law to a real population is provided. The directions for using a six-step algorithmic procedure to determine Hardy-Weinberg percentages on the data given are described. (KR)

Described is how the crumpling of paper balls exhibits the concept of a topological dimension similar to fractals. The mass of the crumpled paper ball is found to be proportional to its diameter raised to a nonintegral power. (KR)

Presents an activity that highlights the mechanism and power of natural selection. Allows students to think in terms of modeling a biological process and instills an appreciation for a mathematical approach to biological problems. (JRH)

The academic needs of gifted students are qualitatively different from those of regular students. This document describes a course that is differentiated for gifted students in the areas of content, process, learning environment, and product. Emphasis is placed on higher order thinking skills through independent study dealing with real world…

Presents experiments to introduce students to the phenomenon of biological rhythmicity and to reinforce the fact that there are differences in the physiology of human beings. (Author/MA)

Suggests ways in which teachers can help students learn investigation and problem-solving skills on open investigation tasks. Includes matching the degree of openness of the investigations to the experience and skills of the student, providing scaffolding to support student decision making, and using formative and student self-assessment. (JRH)

A procedure for estimating the speed and distance of plane, assuming the speed of sound and the velocity of the plane are constant, is described. (KR)

A procedure for measuring the speed of light using the assumption that the frequency of light remains unchanged as it moves from one medium to another is presented. A laser with a known wavelength and frequency in air was used as a light source. (KR)

Describes a contest in which students attempt to build a device that produces a donut-shaped air pulse that will travel the greatest distance with the most accuracy. (WRM)

Presents an activity that allows students to apply problem-solving skills and chemical principles to calculate the cost for converting a gasoline-powered vehicle to propane. (Author/ASK)

Discusses methods and exercises appropriate for use in a secondary school chemistry classroom to enhance mastery of skills in these three areas: communication, mathematics, and problem solving. (CS)

Explains how the moon provides information about the evolution of the solar system and offers scope for physics-based investigations. Uses statistical analysis of real scientific data with which students can predict the diameter and depth of impact craters then compare them with data gathered in institutions or laboratories. (Author/YDS)