An inexpensive DNA preparation is presented which starts with commercially available frozen packed bacterial cells. Methods for analyzing the DNA are also presented, along with physical chemical experiments which can be done using the purified DNA. (BB)

Describes an experiment for the intermediate undergraduate optics laboratory designed to illustrate simultaneously some aspects of the phenomena of diffraction; interference, coherence, apodization, the Fresnel-Arago law; as well as of the interrelations between these concepts. (HM)

This study developed and validated an inventory to measure students' attitudes toward and interest in laboratory work in high school chemistry. Factor analysis provided some evidence that interest in and attitude towards laboratory work in high school chemistry is not unidimensional, as it has been assumed to be. (BT)

Reviews research related to laboratory work and makes recommendations for the classroom on how to make labs more meaningful. Argues that pre- and post-laboratory discussions containing theory behind the lab and purposes of the lab are essential for new understanding. (DDR)

Gives a step-by-step description of a problem-solving microscale chemistry laboratory to show how this implementation of problem-solving teaching can be put into practice. Pedagogical and practical issues are discussed. (DKM)

Describes the construction of a simple apparatus that can be used to take advantage of the overhead projector in a spectacular presentation of chemical reactions that complement quantitative approaches of study in the traditional high school science classroom. (JRH)

Describes an approach that uses fiction as a springboard to environmental science experiments and discussions. (JRH)

Features a checklist of structural questions for writing a laboratory report discussion. Presents a rationale for this method of helping students organize their thoughts. (DDR)

Uses crepe paper for the introduction of spectrophotometric concepts. Dyes used in the manufacturing of the crepe paper dissolve rapidly in water to produce solutions of colors. The variety of colors provides spectra in the visible spectrum that allow students to grasp concepts of absorption and transmission. (AIM)

Presents an experiment that investigates the temperature of tungsten filaments using a car headlamp. Uses a spreadsheet program that facilitates extensive data manipulation. Gives students an awareness of the many mathematical techniques used in data analysis. (Author/JRH)

Discusses a number of important laboratory-related terms worthy of consideration and suggests a classification scheme that may be used to rate individual activities while implying a direction to enhance such exercises. Highlights implications of classifying laboratory activities and clarifying laboratory vocabulary. Contains 11 references. (JRH)

Suggests that because controlled experiments are used extensively by professional ecologists to solve both theoretical and applied problems, experimentation should be a key component of secondary school ecology curricula. Describes five teaching principles to guide secondary school biology teachers in providing a more realistic view of the…

A teacher of students with hearing impairments outlines ways to integrate use of the scientific method into science laboratory experiences. A sample experiment is outlined, and the value of the applied science experiences for students who are concrete learners is stressed. (DB)

Presented is a brief history of manufacturing chocolate and an outline of production methods. Describes laboratory techniques used to monitor liquid chocolate viscosity. Discusses a simple experiment which can be performed in the classroom. (Author/CW)

To integrate a research/discovery component into one course, an experiment using the sea urchin embryo system is introduced because the teacher manages only one organism and students provide the variables. The materials, handling methods, and experimental methods of the experiment are described. (YP)