Presents a laboratory model system for introductory microbiology students that involves hands-on studies of bacteria vectored in soil nematodes. Describes a series of experiments designed to demonstrate vector-fomite transmission, bacterial survival, and disinfectant activity. Introduces the concept of genetically engineered microorganisms and the…

The theory of evolution provides direction in many fields, such as ecology, genetics, and embryology. Examines issues concerning the teaching of the subject in the United States. Presents a case study approach to teach about the nature of science using the theory of evolution. (SOE)

Presents historical examples of analogies and examines the positive and negative influences of analogies in the field of biology. Draws on current research literature to demonstrate the contentious status that the use of analogies has in biology instruction. Critically analyzes analogies used in textbooks and classrooms and presents a possible…

Addresses the most popular models currently being chosen for biological research and the reasons behind those choices. Among the current favorites are zebra fish, fruit flies, mice, monkeys, and yeast. Concludes with a brief examination of the ethical issues involved, and why some animals may need to be replaced in research with model systems.…

Describes a course that uses video production projects to entice lower level students into independent field investigation, reinforce their scientific curiosity, and build their confidence in the value of their own observations. Discusses the rationale behind using video, the lab structure, the success of this approach, and logistics and…

Focuses on bridging the gap between classical and molecular genetics for two traits: wrinkled seeds in garden peas and white eye color in fruit flies. Discusses the molecular details of the underlying basis of these traits. Contains 15 references. (JRH)

Discusses simple and safe techniques that can be used in the educational laboratory to study hemoglobin. Discusses the spectral properties of hemoglobin, spectral-absorbence curves of oxyhemoglobin and carboxyhemoglobin, tracking the conversion of oxyhemoglobin to methemoglobin, and changing from the oxyhemoglobin to deoxyhemoglobin conformation.…

Describes the use of mussels in measuring the extent of chemical contamination and its variation in different coastal regions. Presents an experiment to introduce students to immune response and the effects of environmental pollution on marine organisms. Contains 14 references. (JRH)

Describes an education-government-community environmental partnership program that set aside permanent environmental study sites where students and teachers can conduct meaningful, service-oriented environmental research. Highlights a project where students prepared a comprehensive plant species inventory of a section of the wilderness area.…

Presents a strategy to help students grasp the important implications of population growth. Involves an interactive demonstration that allows students to experience exponential and logistic population growth followed by a discussion of the implications of population-growth principles. (JRH)

Demonstrates the use of geological concepts and principles as an effective approach to teaching evolution and in turn the nature of science and the scientific method in the classroom. This approach to teaching makes it easier for students to understand the basic concepts of evolution which is really important in order to understand nature as it…

Presents methods for creating appropriate ways of collecting live specimens to use for firsthand observation in the classroom. Suggests ecological questions for students to address using these devices. This project is ideal for schools that have access to piers or bridges on a coastal body of water. (NB)

Examines the ideal ecology curriculum in terms of education rationale, goals, and content. Reviews available data sources with regard to environmental education. (KHR)

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

Analyzes a senior secondary biology textbook in Nigeria, STAN Biology, for its misconceptions and alternative conceptions. Discusses how the classroom teacher might filter the conceptual problems before they are presented to students as knowledge. Provides examples of the identified misconceptions and alternative conceptions along with their more…