The Gaia hypothesis, which promulgates the idea that the Earth as a whole is alive, is discussed. The microworld and the idea that symbiosis is a major force behind evolution are emphasized. (KR)

Science writing from periods of great change in science can be used productively in the classroom to advance scientific literacy. Compares the scientific monograph with the short paper prevalent in the late 20th century and suggests that there are cases in which a small group of papers can serve the same function as a monograph. (Contains 30…

This activity introduces students to the basic concept of seafloor spreading, the processes involved in creating new seafloor at a mid- ocean ridge, the Galapagos Spreading Center system, and the different types of plate motion associated with ridge segments and transform faults. The activity provides learning objectives, a list of needed…