The harmful effects of smoking tobacco are discussed. Instructions, lists of materials, and discussion questions for three activities to investigate these effects are provided. A glossary of tobacco-use terms is given. (CW)

Tests in each science area were developed around six laboratory tasks. Students had to plan an investigation, collect and organize data, and formulate conclusions based on calculations and graphs. Over 1,000 students from 32 Ohio schools formed the sample for this study. Data are presented by skill and by task. An analysis for gender and school…

With thousands of activities available, how does a teacher select activities appropriate for the classroom? Describes the guidelines of the "Science Activity Filter," which provide a useful protocol for evaluating science activities for their value in the classroom, allowing the teacher to use resources effectively, minimize discipline and safety…

Presents a student study of the growing conditions of the Water Hyacinth and its effect on the food chain. Describes the different phases of the project including fieldwork, a public awareness survey, public involvement, control programs, and conclusions. A vignette describes beneficial uses of the Water Hyacinth. (MCO)

Outlines 39 physics demonstrations that utilize simple objects such as coffee and soda cans to illustrate scientific concepts. (12 references) (MDH)

Proposes the V-Scope as a teaching aid to measure, analyze, and display three-dimensional multibody motion. Describes experiment setup considerations, how measurements are calculated, graphic representation capabilities, and modes of operation of this microcomputer-based system. (MDH)

Proposes methods by which laboratory practical exams may be structured to assess outcomes from laboratory instruction. Presents eight general considerations for writing and using practical exams. Describes four example laboratory exams involving a box camera, circuit boxes, floating objects, and light. (MDH)

Describes the process of problem identification, data collection, and generalization in a mathematical experiment to find the speed at which a bug travels at the end of a fan blade. Presents the learning outcomes of the experiment and possible implications of using this teaching method. (MDH)

Presents a class activity in which students use trigonometry to calculate the height attained by a water rocket. Provides a lesson plan that includes a list of materials needed, procedures to carry out the experiment, suggestions to extend the activity, and a reproducible worksheet for the students to register their calculations. (MDH)

Describes a number of student-focused laboratory exercises that are inexpensive, yet show the scientific character of archaeology. Describes the environmental laboratory exercise which includes the following analysis topics: (1) pollen; (2) earth core; (3) microfaunal; and (4) microwear. Describes the ceramic laboratory which involves…

Uses computers to help students identify variables controlling pendulum period. A program written in BASIC for the Apple computer is provided. The activities are useful for developing science skills, mathematics skills, and computer skills. (PR)

Provides background information on DNA fingerprinting, and describes exercises for introducing general biology students at the high school or college level to the methodology and applications of DNA fingerprinting. (PR)

Describes how lectures, laboratories, and role playing can be used to introduce students to the importance of water quality of water used for plant growth. (PR)

Describes having students write lab reports that concentrate more on writing and independent thought. Students take the role of scientists writing about their findings for publication. The teacher acts as a journal editor, reading the reports and either accepting them for publication or suggesting ways for improvement. (PR)

Presents a problem-solving activity in which students determine the effects on the water level in a pool when rocks are removed from a boat floating in the pool and placed into the water. Students discuss the problem, design an experiment to test solutions, conduct the experiment, and draw conclusions. (MDH)