Presents an activity in which models help students visualize both the DNA process and transcription. After constructing DNA, RNA messenger, and RNA transfer molecules; students model cells, protein synthesis, codons, and RNA movement. (MDH)

Discusses three prospective elementary teachers' conceptions of teaching science and selected portions of their knowledge base in life science. Explores how these teachers' conceptions, along with their teaching actions, developed during the course of a teacher-education program. Contains 21 references. (Author/WRM)

Discusses three prospective secondary biology teachers' conceptions of teaching science and selected portions of their knowledge base in biology. Explores how these teachers' conceptions, along with their teaching actions, developed during the course of a teacher-education program. Contains 31 references. (Author/WRM)

The life scientist's professional activity is much more than just laboratory work. Information search and retrieval and later communication of conclusions are important and substantial matters. How to manage knowledge is essential for the future scientific or technological careers of college students. Nevertheless, knowledge management is…

Currently, the biological sciences' arsenal of information and knowledge is increasing at such a rate that teachers cannot expect or be expected to teach all the "facts" that are known. Instead many are suggesting that teachers should help students to develop an ability to use and apply fundamental concepts in a critical and analytical way. To…

This curriculum guide lists science topics and concepts, learning outcomes, and sample learning objectives (in three columns) for these secondary school science courses in Alaska: (1) general science (grades 7-12); (2) life science (grades 7-12); (3) physical science (grades 7-12); (4) earth science (grades 8-10); (5) biology (grades 10-12); (6)…

This guide was developed with the intention of helping teachers and school site administrators in California review the elementary science curriculum and compare it to an idealized model that is presented in the document. Part I of the guide provides a summary of a number of characteristics considered to be important to a strong elementary science…

The basic elective course in introductory botany is designed for secondary students who probably will not continue study in plant science. The objectives of the course are to help the student 1) identify, compare and differentiate types of plants; 2) identify plant cell structures; 3) distinguish between helpful and harmful plants; 4) predict…

Describes an activity designed to help children understand why there is a limit to the size of animals that live on land. Details the materials and set-up for this activity. Contains a reproducible, three-part activity sheet to accompany the activity. A key for the teacher is included. (CW)

Outlines an adaptive framework for the study of plants and their pollinators in which both partners in the ecological relationship are seen as maximizing fitness through efficient use of the other as a resource. Suggests experimental projects to examine the validity of these assumptions giving an evolutionary emphasis. (Author/CW)

Assessed the level of cognitive demand inherent in the manner in which students were held accountable for activities and tasks in seventh grade life science classes. Notes that most tasks placed minimal cognitive demand on students, as they involved copying or simple step-by-step procedures. (SKC)

Describes a lesson designed to help young students conceptualize cholesterol and its effects on the body. Provides young students with a concrete way to understand how cholesterol builds up in blood vessels and restricts blood flow. Includes a simple illustrative experiment for children to perform themselves. (CW)

Presents criteria for having students make their own games which are used by the class to review material covered in life science. Students are required to use recycled materials in producing the game and its accessories. Samples of some of the games produced are included. (TW)

Results of this study suggest that diagrams provide different types of information for ninth-grade students (N=273) and that learners process each type differently. Flow diagrams running across a page from either left to right or right to left, or with or without drawings of dinosaurs, were used. (JN)

Describes Waunakee Community School's six-week Summer Science Program for students entering the seventh grade. Students are selected for this science enrichment program on the basis of interest, ability, and maturity. Program content includes wetlands, forests, prairies, and animals, concluding with a camping trip. (DS)