Biology textbooks tend to assert the correctness of evolutionary concepts but mention very little of the evidence that supports them. This gives the impression that evolutionary theory is poorly supported, which discourages acceptance of the theory. A case in point is the age of the Earth. Biology textbooks usually mention that the planet is…

In the past, contributions by women have been largely overlooked in U.S. science instruction. However, the move toward standards-based integration of appropriate history of science topics supports bringing female scientists' viewpoints to the classroom--offering a range of perspectives on scientific advances. The authors' historical research in…

Describes a self-paced undergraduate environmental science course focusing on a theme that earth is similar to a spaceship inasmuch as: (1) both possess finite room and resources, and (2) living things are dependent upon life-support systems for continued survival. Includes a list of laboratory and learning activities. (DS)

Described is a project designed to transport a rich fossil-bearing bed of rock to the campus of a community college for analysis by undergraduate students. The arrangements, set-up acquisition of rock, transportation, and costs are discussed. The benefits of this arrangement are highlighted. (CW)

Inexpensive metal probe meters that are sold by garden stores can be evaluated by students for their accuracy in measuring soil pH, moisture, fertility, and salinity. The author concludes that the meters are inaccurate and cannot be calibrated in standard units. However, the student evaluations are useful in learning the methods of soil analysis…

Presents teacher comments on audiovisual materials dealing with: biotechnology applications in immunology, agriculture, and cancer research; efforts to halt the eutrophication of Lake Tahoe; and banana slugs. Availability and costs of materials are included. (RT)

Describes a soil lab that can be performed with a minimum of equipment and time, utilizing a lawn, field, or woodlot. Students dig a 1-meter-deep pit and observe the litter and humus layers where most microbial and fungal decomposition occurs. Describes comparing different locations by pH level and concentration of potassium, phosphorous, and…

Describes two successful approaches (peer teaching and role playing) to teaching students about their environment. Also included are ideas for additional classroom assignments. (ZWH)

Presented are ideas for a six-year science curriculum for secondary school science education. Exposure to biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences for the purpose of preparing students to enter college is proposed. The integration of the science disciplines during all six years is emphasized. (CW)

Defends the need for field trips, citing studies that show improved methodology and process knowledge. Also stresses the need for planning to ensure success of such trips and to defend them on a cost basis. Includes two field studies: a north/south slope comparison, and fossil record study. (JM)

Presents the philosophical, methodological, and conceptual contributions of earth science to the biology curriculum. Explores how the curriculum can build on these contributions to achieve greater relevance for students as a basis for decision making. Gives examples of computer networks that accomplish that goal. (11 references) (MDH)

Describes the major technological hurdles that scientists and engineers must overcome if humans are to make extended explorations of space in manned vehicles. (ZWH)

Describes scientific research on an Earthwatch expedition to study Arenal, one of the world's most active volcanoes, in north central Costa Rica. The purpose of the two-week project was to monitor and understand the past and ongoing development of a small, geologically young, highly active stratovolcano in a tropical, high-rainfall environment.…

Presents a visual aid designed to generate an image of water movement among soil particles using an overhead projector to teach the physical phenomena related to water status and water movement in the soil. Utilizes a base plate of thin transparent plastic, opaque plastic sheets, a plate of glass, and a colored aqueous solution. (AIM)