Discusses application of group theory to the teaching of selection rules in electronic and vibrational spectroscopy. Indicates that acquaintance with such a mathematical concept is essential for high school students to understand molecular spectrum courses. (CC)

Discusses the use of aluminum chloride and other Friedel-Crafts type catalysts to polymerize 2-methylpropene and the application of such products in industry and agriculture. Includes a laboratory experiment on the polybutene preparation suitable for high school purposes. (CC)

Discusses the building of a scientific theory on the basis of its characteristics including inflexible and comprehensive nature and related degree of trueness.'' Indicates that detailed phenomenon explanation, clarification of the theory scope, and presentation of competing theories are worthy objectives to pursue in teaching science to…

Discusses the meaning of symmetry of the laws of physics and symmetry of the universe and the connection between symmetries and asymmetries of the laws of physics and those of the universe. An explanation of Hamilton's principle is offered. The material is suitable for informal discussions with students. (Author/SK)

Focuses on human information processes and problem solving. Although a large body of knowledge is prerequisite to acquiring skill, the authors state that knowledge must be indexed by patterns that guide the person in a fraction of a second to relevant parts of the knowledge store. (Author/SA)

An approach is suggested for teaching science history through inquiry training. A series of investigations are given for illustrating to students the manner in which organisms are grouped taxonomically. (SA)

Discusses various kinds of symbiosis including commensalism, protocooperation, mutualism. Examples are given of each, and emphasis is on the interdependence of living things. (SA)

Presents a discussion for the principles of a Fourier Transform infrared spectrophotometer which is intended to provide chemists with a basic understanding of these principles. (HM)

An elementary science teacher's technique for stimulating children to think visually, is presented. Through the medium of magic, children are given opportunities to form mental images to explain certain phenomena in science class. (SA)

Catalysis is defined and discussed as the process relates to science history, chemical reactions, enzymes, industry, catalytic reactors, and catalyst preparation. (SA)

Answers criticisms of "On What Basis Hope? Modern Progress and Postmodern Possibility" (Danforth), which used a postmodernist perspective to discuss the history and utilization of modern social science and the myth of scientific progress. The "validation trap" of scientific research and its limiting effect on innovation is discussed. (CR)

Describes the use of a computer-linked camera to demonstrate Coulomb's law. Suggests a way of reducing the difficulties in presenting Coulomb's law by teaching the inverse square law of gravity and the inverse square law of electricity in the same unit. (AIM)

Reports on Project 3 from the Evidence-based Practice in Science Education (EPSE) Research Network. This project explores issues surrounding the inability of many science teachers to enable students to understand the nature of science. (DDR)

Presents a Public Health Service (PHS) program as a model for implementing the Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) instructional program. Describes an ethical decision making framework designed to guide a discussion of issues surrounding the responsible conduct of research and facilitates the consideration of ethical choices in the context of…