Some of the problems encountered in devising sixth-form projects are discussed and a detailed account given of one project in which a study was made of the effect of onion bulb volatiles on the germination of lettuce seed. (Author)

Describes some practical exercises involving the glutamine synthetase enzyme of Beneckea Natriegens. (CS)

Describes a biochemistry class project which allows students to investigate independently the separate aspects of a common complex problem. The basic experimental procedure is detailed for obtaining information about the structure and geometry of L-ornithine carbamoyltransferase. (CS)

Recommendations are made for handling and growth of Beneckea natriegens, a rapidly growing, nonpathogenic marine bacterium which can be used with advantage to replace Escherichia coli in many undergraduate microbiology experiments. Examples of experiments and the potential value of this organism as a subject for student research projects are…

We describe a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocol suitable for use in secondary schools and colleges. This PCR protocol can be used to investigate genetic variation between plants. The protocol makes use of primers which are complementary to sequences of nucleotides that are highly conserved across different plant genera. The regions of…

Analyzes the effects of age, sex and family composition on students' preferences for the sex and birth order of their offspring. (LS)

Discusses minimum necessary nuclear fundamentals of radioactive isotopes such as levels of activity, specific activity and the use of carrier materials. Corrections that need to be taken into account in using an isotope to obtain a valid result are also described and statistics for a valid result are included. (BR)

Focuses on genetic concepts that form key components of transmission genetics and illustrates how the domestic cat can be used in the teaching of these concepts. Offers examples of how laboratory experiences with the cat can enhance student learning of genetics. (ML)

Methods of investigating plant root growth developed for research purposes can be adopted for student use. Investigations of the effect of water table level and of ethylene concentration are described, and techniques of measuring root growth are explained. (Author/ML)

Discusses the instructional potential of Chlamydomonas in providing a basis for a range of experimental investigations to illustrate basic biological phenomena. Describes the use of this algae genus in studies of population growth, photosynthesis, and mating behavior. Procedures for laboratory exercises are included. (ML)

Background information on the biology of aphids is supplied. Using this information in a wide variety of investigations, many involving equipment and techniques available in the school laboratory, can be carried out. An appendix lists possible projects. (Author)

Describes the experimental procedures for isolating fungi and demonstrating their tolerance of fungicides such as creosote and organic mercury. (JR)

Describes five microbiological experiments using the marine organism Vibrio natriegens. This organism is highly suitable for laboratory work because it is non-pathogenic and grows extremely rapidly, having the distinction of the lowest mean generation time yet recorded (9.8 minutes). (JR)

Describes a laboratory practical on animal behavior suitable for senior secondary school or university biology classes. Several separate exercises relating to the house building behavior of caddis fly larvae are detailed, together with the time required for preparation. (JR)

Provided are directions for culturing bacteria by using yoghurt as a culture medium. Yoghurt is a safe medium and results in an end product which may be eaten if desired. (PB)