Describes a series of low-cost experiments to investigate the ability of seeds from different species to acquire tolerance of thermal stress. Suggests links to discussions on molecular biology, physiology, ecology, and evolution. (WRM)

Presented is an activity that may be used to help students clarify the basics of graphing while allowing individuals to collect data and perform a simple experiment. A timetable, rules for graphing, materials, procedures, and suggestions for extension activities are provided. (CW)

Activities that use dandelions to show the phenomena of geotropism and autotropism are described. Directions for collecting the stalks and observing the gravitropic response are included. The topics of lag time and bending rates, autotropism, growth rate changes, presentation time, and gravity detection are discussed. (KR)

Presents two experiments in which students examine the effects of touching and shaking on plant growth in common bush beans. (MDH)

Reviews the history and habits of the fungus commonly referred to as the "chestnut blight." Considers the impact of the blight and efforts to control it, offers personal and cultural reflections on the blight, and gives tips for incorporating the information into cross-disciplinary lessons. Contains 17 references. (WRM)

Investigations that facilitate experimental design, the concept of replication, data analysis, and other aspects of scientific study are described. A list of materials, the recommended plants, and the directions for building the hydroponics unit are included. (KR)

Examples from research that incorporate plants to illustrate biological principles are presented. Topics include dried pea shape, homeotic genes, gene transcription in plants that are touched or wounded, production of grasslands, seaweed defenses, migrating plants, camouflage, and family rivalry. (KR)

Outlines the stages of a cell biology "pulse-chase" experiment in which the students apply autoradiography techniques to learn about the concept of the cell cycle. Includes (1) seed germination and plant growth; (2) radioactive labeling and fixation of root tips; (3) feulgen staining of root tips; (4) preparation of autoradiograms; and…

Ethnobotany is the scientific investigation of plant use by indigenous cultures for food, medicine, pesticides, and other purposes. Discusses the significance of ethnobotany and provides resources and laboratory activities suitable for use in biology and botany courses at the high school and college levels. (MDH)

Describes using the common house plant, "Coleus blumei," to illustrate gravitropic effects, phototrophic effects, and hormonal effects in plants. (PR)

Outlined is a specific computer application which can be used to analyze data on plant community composition from the point quarter sampling method. Procedures, examples of spreadsheets prepared in this manner, and evaluation of the activity are presented. (CW)

Described is a simple test which uses micro- and macro-observations of onion root tips to demonstrate mutagenic and other toxic effects of various contaminants. Discussed are materials, methods, microscopic procedures, and applications of this activity. (CW)

Presents two techniques involving simple and inexpensive demonstrations: (1) explains how pressure inside cells gives them mechanical strength, and (2) shows how water can be pulled up stems. Both can be adapted to suit a variety of levels of instruction. (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)

An experiment in which students collect and analyze data on the population size of a real organism rather that on a model is presented. The activity allows for the integration of mathematics, graphing techniques, and the use of computers. The lesson is designed to follow the learning cycle format. (KR)