Presents a scenario-based anatomy exercise designed for middle schools students. Investigates the anatomy of alfalfa and sweet clover plants while focusing on seedling anatomy. (YDS)

Introduces a brine shrimp assay to demonstrate the effects of the biological activity of herbal remedies. Describes two protocols, one using aqueous extracts and the other using methanol extracts. (Contains 21 references.) (YDS)

Introduces gall-making insects and explains gall development. Explains how to bring galls into the classroom and conduct experiments. Suggests using gall systems to introduce students to the concepts of genetic control, biodiversity, plant and animal development, species interactions, biodiversity, and the flow of energy through the food web. (YDS)

Examined 10 introductory college-level, general biology survey textbooks for the coverage of algae to assess the efficacy of coverage. Describes a proposal of seven kingdoms and discusses the disposition of algae among five of these kingdoms. Contends that textbooks should highlight the concept of algae across the five kingdoms. Contains 59…

The South Pacific Action Committee for Human Ecology and Environment (SPACHEE) involved women in experiential workshops to explore forest ecosystems. The first phase focused on the forest environment, the second on documenting and promoting traditional medicine and medicinal plants, valuable local knowledge that can persuade people to protect the…

Describes the Amazonia exhibit at the Smithsonian's National Zoological Park, in Washington DC. The exhibit provides an example of the plant and animal life that exist in a tropical rain forest. (MDH)

Nine sixth-grade students were asked to identify plants by their common names. In the event that students did not know the correct response, researchers observed a variety of avoidance strategies. The study demonstrated that students at the elementary level should be introduced to the concept of genus before more abstract levels of the botanical…

Provides simple instructions for establishing an herbarium, in which the collecting and classifying of dried plants preserves a vital record of the status and variety of the flora found within particular locations at specific times. (Author/JJK)

Provides an assessment of national standards for precollege science courses, specifically precollege botanical education. The article provides suggestions for instructors to aid in ensuring that more botany is taught at all educational levels. (ZWH)

Presents an interview with Walbot who has done genetic research using corn plants. (PR)

Presents a laboratory activity designed to be a botanical autotutorial tour of a supermarket, meant to increase students' appreciation of the role that botany plays in the production of food. (WRM)

Describes a method to collect seeds that are dispersed from weeds while avoiding some outdoor hazards such as rough terrain or animals. Describes a plan for creating a weed fishing pole and includes a materials list. (SAH)

Points out the usefulness of drawing for a biologist, how biologists spend time on it, and contrasts how teachers do not spent any time on drawing in biology education. Recommends starting drawing with plants because they are stationary. Provides drawing exercises and explains how to draw with different techniques. (Contains 12 references.) (YDS)

Presents a field exercise illustrating the ecological requirements of a group of organisms and testing the common hypothesis "moss only grows on the north side of trees". Describes the protocol. (YDS)

Provides hands-on biology activities using plastic bottles that allow students to become engaged in asking questions, creating experiments, testing hypotheses, and generating answers. Activities explore terrestrial and aquatic systems. (MKR)