Describes a field exercise which links ecology and taxonomy in the teaching of the species concept. Two common hedgerow plants (red and white campions) are used as a pair of "species" that are normally distinct. Plants of intermediate character can be encountered, and the status of these plants is investigated. (Author/JN)

Reviews the conventional interpretation of the etiology of Down syndrome, summarizing recent data that do not support this interpretation. Also surveys the way in which clinical, cytogenic, and statistical findings related to the syndrome are presented in 27 major genetics textbooks published since 1975. (Author/JN)

A major and well-recognized difficulty in estimating the effects of education on earnings is that the more educated are likely to be more able, irrespective of education. This problem is studied using data on identical twins to control for differences in ability that arise from genetic endowments and family environment. (WL)

A review of data on parent-offspring resemblances in intelligence is presented in the context of correlation, regression and variance predictions from the polygenic model and an environmental model. (Editor)

Presents an overview of the contributors' reactions and summarizes the controversies which arose from the 1975 APA presidential address. Thoughts on behaviorism as well as evolutionary theory in American psychology are also presented. (Author/AM)

The GenScope Assessment Project is studying assessment in the context of a month-long computer-supported learning environment for introductory genetics. Across three annual iterations with multiple teachers, project researchers manipulated the materials, incentives, and contexts in which students were invited to use formative feedback on…

The human genome project started in 1989 with the collaboration of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). This document aims to develop an understanding among students of the human genome project and relevant issues. Topics include the science and technology of the human genome project, and the ethical and…

Over the past decade, a number of scholars have publicly criticized large research universities for failing to provide undergraduate students with the skills and abilities needed to succeed both in life and in the workforce. At the heart of this criticism is the concern that research institutions have de-emphasized teaching by increasing the size…

This paper presents an overview of recent findings relating to the influence of genetics on reading disability. The paper questions the appropriateness of the etiology of reading disability and its possible relevance to remediation. It finds that early identification of children who are at risk of reading failure due to a genetic cause could help…

This biology curriculum supplement includes the North Carolina Standard Course of Study Goals, helpful resources, and suggested activities supported by inquiry-based laboratory activities. Contents include a detailed description of content which provides the goals and standards being sough), a materials list for inquiry support labs and…

This curriculum supplement guide brings the latest medical discoveries to classrooms. This module focuses on the objectives of introducing students to the genetic variations of human beings, and developing an understanding of the relationship between biomedical research and personal and public health. This module includes five major sections: (1)…

Describes an exercise in which senior high school biology students used a computer to simulate genetic mapping. The exercise was designed to enhance the students' grasp of the concepts of linkage and crossing-over. (JR)

Discusses the effects of radioactive wastes on marine communities, with particular reference to the fitness of populations and the need for field and laboratory studies to provide evidence of ecological change. (JR)

Comparing group intelligence according to racial or geographic orgin has neither social nor scientific value; the emphasis in education and the social economy is not the creation of equality but the development of each individual to his maximum performance. (Author/JM)