Describes a laboratory protocol optimizing the conditions for the assay of pepsin activity using the Coomasie Blue dye binding assay of protein concentration. The dye bonds through strong, noncovalent interactions to basic and aromatic amino acid residues. (DDR)

Discusses applications of recombinant DNA technology and the controversies surrounding that technique. Provides a cooperative learning project idea that involves teams of students investigating and debating these issues. (DDR)

Details the use of the game Yahtzee with modified rules to help students understand the extreme improbability of obtaining complex structures by chance in the process of evolution. Includes a discussion of probability calculations. (DDR)

Presents three experiments to introduce students to different kinds of chromatography: (1) paper chromatography; (2) gel filtration chromatography; and (3) reverse-phase liquid chromatography. Written in the form of a laboratory manual, explanations of each of the techniques, materials needed, procedures, and a glossary are included. (PVD)

Describes how high school biology students use the clam to study the bivalve body plan anatomy. Employs an open-ended investigation format that is rich with measurement opportunities including body mass, valve mass, and volume. (DDR)

Presents an approach that can help students to understand what happens in an experiment. Uses overlapping transparencies of both the experiment and the analysis. Includes details of the experiment and transparency preparation. (DDR)

Addresses issues related to students learning to use computers as professional tools. Draws on two qualitative data sources: (1) a case study of a mathematical methods in physics course; and (2) an evaluation of an undergraduate course in multimedia physics. (DDR)

Reports on the evaluation of an interactive media-based science-education project. Concludes that a number of factors must come together for project success, including an environment conducive to innovation and development and strong administrative interest. Contains 16 references. (DDR)

Assesses the effectiveness of an after-school, hands-on science program offered for two years for the purpose of stimulating in-service elementary school teachers to increase their use of the hands-on approach to the teaching of science and mathematics. (Author/CCM)

Presents a hands-on activity designed to be a simulation of meiosis. (WRM)

Summarizes how a group of teachers prepared a series of elementary-level inquiry experiences that focused on the study of land snails. Recommends and describes the K-W-L and Four Question inquiry strategies for younger and older students respectively. (WRM)

Discusses physics, earth science, and physical science concepts that are challenging for students and teachers because they are difficult to understand and demonstrate. Identifies ratio and inverse-square as a unifying-concept approach according to the National Education Standards. Supports teaching based on student-centered activities, long-term…

Discusses the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA's) Laboratory Safety Standards as the major driving force in establishing and maintaining a safe working environment for teachers and students. (Author)

Focuses on gender gaps in the science, mathematics, and engineering disciplines. Describes both the Douglas Project for Rutgers Women in Math, Science, and Engineering, and Project SUPER (Science for Undergraduates: A Program for Excellence in Research) which was developed for women students. Presents a list of additional resources including web…

Describes a three-week activity unit on earthquakes that addresses the National Science Education Standards. Includes mantle convection, crust, plate tectonics, and faults concepts. (YDS)