Uses base-year data from a nationally representative database (NELS:88) to identify important explanatory factors for gender differences in science performance. Documents a large advantage for boys on the subtest of physical science and a modest advantage for girls in life science. Concludes that laboratory experiences are beneficial for girls'…

Examines students' construction of experimentation models for physics theories in energy storage, transformation, and transfers involving electricity and mechanics. Student problem solving dialogs and artificial intelligence modeling of these processes is analyzed. Construction of models established relations between elements with linear causal…

Notes the careful observation of chemical reactivity phenomena has been and should be an important part of the general chemistry laboratory curriculum. Stresses reduction of experimental scale will help to ensure, in times of rampant chemophobia, that it remains so. Provides several examples of the methodology. (MVL)

Presents a halogen substitution of an alkane using a compartmentalized Petri dish or Conway dish on an overhead projector. Provides methodology and several modifications for different reactions. Uses hexane, methyl orange, bromine, and silver nitrate. (MVL)

Presents several fun activities and teacher demonstrations which simplify terms and condense science concepts for teaching about the lever, wedge, wheel and axle, screw, pulley, and the inclined plane. Includes objectives, materials, procedures, suggested follow-up assignments, and diagrams. (RT)

Examines the thermal decomposition of sodium bicarbonate to sodium carbonate. Encourages students to predict the end products and to use the stoichiometric results to determine if their predictions are correct. (MVL)

Provides two demonstrations: (1) electrolyte migration of ions using colored ions which cross a strip of gelatin allowing for noticeable migration; and (2) photochemical reduction of Fe+3 by the citrate ion. Points out both reactions can be done in a Petri dish using common lab materials. (MVL)

States there is little direct evidence that the current laboratory instructional method is an important component of chemistry instruction. Provides a historical account of laboratory work. Studies individual work versus demonstrations, and computer simulations. Urges the use of computer based methods to provide a rich laboratory experience. (MVL)

Develops a compact minicell design in which the measured voltage is close to the desired emf. Notes student's observations for several cells are within 0.02V of the expected values. Presents numerous reasons for using miniware and semimicro qualitative analysis. Full experimental writeup is available from the authors. (MVL)

Teaching creative thinking can be accomplished by activities in which the teacher asks questions of the students which require divergent thinking. The activities in this article do not require equipment, supplies or manipulatives. They consist of questions, possible student answers, and suggestions for follow-up. (CW)

Described is an introductory laboratory course designed to enhance basic skills required of biology majors. Discusses materials and their development, manual design, and student and instructor's roles. Outlines procedures and examples of writing, reading, and mathematics activities. (RT)

Described is a reliable and predictable laboratory experiment which represents the result of an integrated approach to design with an emphasis on teaching. Notes the flat-celled rig has logged over 100 hours service in 2 years without any problems. (MVL)

Presented is a photoelectric colorimeter which can be assembled by the student. Reports that it can do many of the same analyses as the SPEC 20 but at a greatly reduced cost using older technology. Presents several experiments to use with the colorimeter. (MVL)

Explains the use of the microcomputer as a multipurpose analytical instrument which frees students from the mechanics of science and allows for more active learning involvement. Provides the typical data acquisition configuration, advantages, disadvantages, and a brief summary. (RT)

Describes a simple laboratory procedure for changing sodium carbonate into sodium chloride by adding concentrated HCl to cause the reaction and then evaporating the water. Claims a good stoichiometric yield can be obtained in one three-hour lab period. Suggests using fume hood for the reaction. (ML)