Reviews growing concern about the quality of tapwater as a source of drinking water. Investigates the preferences of people for tapwater, filtered tapwater, and commercially bottled water, before and after a taste test. Results indicate a preference for bottled water before the taste test and a preference for filtered water after tasting. Contains…

Presents different ideas on what "emotional literacy" means and why it is important to science teachers. (MM)

Describes a method to examine preparations of rocks in thin sections between crossed polaroids using a converted biological microscope or a homemade polariscope. (JRH)

Because of the slow pace of astronomical events, their visibility only at night, and the inability to perform much normal experimental work, there is particular pressure to find justifiable activities for pupils during astronomy lessons. This article is intended to provide direct help to teachers in coping with this problem. (15 references)…

Describes the use of Venn diagrams in chemistry. (MKR)

Describes the development of vaccination and provides a brief biographical sketch of the life and work of Pasteur. Describes historical practices related to vaccination before Pasteur did his work, including variolation as practiced by the ancient Chinese and Jenner's use of smallpox. (PR)

Reports on research attempting to identify the stages, skills, and strategies associated with children's (N=60) problem solving. Reports that conclusions including the creation of a five-stage model of problem solving are relevant not only to children in the 5-14 age group but to pupils undertaking a specific science course from year 10 onward.…

Presents materials to stimulate active learning through modified concept mapping activities designed to help students appreciate alternative perspectives by using cartoons as a stimulus and focusing on the links within a concept map fragment, and encouraging the probing of understanding by annotating the linking words. (Author/YDS)

Visual environment is a neglected area of study in secondary science. Investigates the structure of science classrooms, display materials used, and components of the science curriculum including information on the sex and subject specialization of staff involved with teacher trainees. (Author/YDS)

Describes a study of the ability of fourth-year university student-teachers to use their theoretical knowledge of redox concepts to interpret natural phenomena of everyday life. Uses word-association tests, multiple-choice and open questions and reports that the students have difficulties in recognizing the scientific nature of well-known everyday…

Provides a theoretical basis for the use of role-play, along with some ideas that science teachers may find helpful in further developing the experiential side of their lessons. (Contains 19 references.) (Author/YDS)

Describes a study of practical work carried out in secondary science where pupils provide explanations for the work they did, and did not do, with data. Reports that students revealed a complex set of priorities and compromises, with the most frequent rationales relating to 'earning marks' within the assessment scheme. (Author/MM)

Identifies the misunderstandings and problem-solving strategies of secondary students when solving stoichiometry problems. (Author/CCM)