The article considers the distinction between first- and second-generation science curriculum projects, and describes the first national curriculum developed in Australia, the Australian Science Education Project (ASEP). (MK)

Describes the new mini-courses in freshman chemistry at Central State University. Compared to the traditional course, it was found that there were fewer withdrawals and that more students were achieving higher grades. (SA)

Describes the development of a student-centered chemistry program, based upon the Interdisciplinary Approaches to Chemistry (IAC), designed for two kinds of students: those who are science-oriented and mathematically inclined and those who are not inclined towards mathematics and find theoretical discussions difficult. (Author/SA)

This article provides statistical background to a discussion of girls' education in relation to physics. Speculations are presented concerning the reasons for the decline in women physics students. (Author/SA)

Presents one of the themes of a French chemistry college laboratory course, which concerns the field of solid state chemistry and is focused on the study of the cation distribution in the case of certain spinel ferrites. (HM)

Analyzes the meaning of Piaget's concept of abstraction and provides discussion of some of its shortcomings. (HM)

Discusses some principles of biological taxonomy. The evolutionary principle in taxonomy and its limitations, and the difference in evolutionary patterns between plants and animals, are also discussed. (HM)

Describes an environmental science course which has been offered for graduate and undergraduate students at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. The results of the course evaluation are also included. (HM)

Describes how the department of physics of the Western Australian Institute of Technology (WAIT) has been involved in the Peel Inlet-Harvey Estuary study. An appendix which presents the departmental approach to curriculum matters is also included. (HM)

Three definitions of "back-to-the-basics" are given and discussed. The idea that science provides opportunities to practice the most "skill-thinking" is also discussed. (MK)

Describes a talented and gifted (TAG) curriculum for elementary and secondary students in Maryland. Discusses methods used to identify TAG students, educational opportunities utilizing community resources, and curriculum development.

Provides recommendations for developing programs for gifted students. Describes the development of an operational talented and gifted program for elementary students in Connecticut, called Operation Mind Stretch. (MA)

Describes in detail a public school program exclusively for gifted children, grades K-12. Discusses criteria for entry into the program, provides profiles of the students, and explains evaluation of student progress. (MA)

Discusses the existing design of some undergraduate physics courses, and outlines the general aims which will give the development of a physics curriculum a definite direction and approach. (GA)

Describes an undergraduate course, The Colonization of Space, which introduces nonscience majors at the University of North Florida to current topics in the exploration, industrialization, and colonization of space. References to the audiovisual resources and literature are also included. (HM)