This study aimed to investigate the comparative value of experimenting with physical manipulatives (PM) in a sequential combination with virtual manipulatives (VM), with the use of PM preceding the use of VM, and of experimenting with PM alone, with respect to changes in students' conceptual understanding in the domain of heat and temperature. A…

This study examines cognitive and social processes in group interactions that shape collaborative learning in science classrooms. Three small groups of students were observed while working collaboratively on explaining the burning of a candle under a jar. The learning environment served as a context for examination of conceptual convergence, a…

This book is a collection of 28 experiments that are not meant to have any practical purpose. Each experiment, however, illustrates a scientific principle and enables students to discover how scientific facts and theories apply to seemingly useless experiments. Each experiment includes a list of materials, a series of steps, an explanation of the…

Beginning teachers of scientific technical writing often have little background knowledge in the sciences; thus, they may encounter difficulty in dealing with technical reports. To achieve clear explanations of the effects of scientific experiments, scientific writers need to know the following general principles: (1) the function of all the…

The concentration of the primary brain metabolite of norepinephrine is diminished in the lumbar spinal fluid of patients with Korsakoff's syndrome. The extent of its reduction is correlated with measures of memory impairment. (BB)

Describes the chemistry exhibit at Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry. Aimed at teaching the public the basic principles of chemistry, the museum features numerous video displays as well as several do-it-yourself experiments. (JN)

A homemade device for testing particle scattering is described. Also described are experiments in zero gravity conducted in free fall in the cargo space of an airplane belonging to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. (JN)

Describes a carefully integrated presentation of visuals, demonstrations, stage magic, and music used to familiarize laypersons as well as students with the applications and fascination of modern chemistry. Suggests that this approach can be used by others for classroom and/or public-oriented ventures. (JN)

Reviews experimental data on various aspects of climate control. Includes a discussion of (1) the physics of cloud seeding, (2) the applications of cloud seeding, and (3) the role of statistics in the field of weather modification. Bibliography. (LC)

This article describes one way of approaching the development of a course in laboratory work in which units are designed in a systematic way." (Author)

Presents three simple water activities, for grades 4-6, to teach about molecular attraction as seen in surface tension and cohesion. (Author/SJL)

Outlines eight science experiments that require no materials except household trash. (SJL)