The discovery of frog abnormalities by students on a school field trip in 1995 sparked hundreds of scientific studies in search of the cause of abnormality. This Socio-Scientific Issue has been used as an inquiry-based learning exercise for training in the practice of science, but it is also well-suited to teaching the nature of science. Our goal…

Describes changes to a traditional study of population in yeast colonies. Changes to the procedures include: (1) only one culture per student team; (2) cultures are inoculated only once; and (3) the same tube is sampled daily. (DDR)

Described are the formation, goals, and activities of a network of teachers and students designed to help raise consciousness about conservation topics. A two-week minicourse on tropical diversity, ecology, and society is outlined. (CW)

Presents details of how a local stream is studied as part of a ninth-grade science curriculum, the goal of which is to learn about the school's ecosystem. Provides examples of specific group projects related to the stream. (DDR)

The philosophy of the Science, Technology, and Society (STS) model is illustrated in this planned course outline on a thematic unit on corn. Parts of the lesson include the instructional objectives, instructional strategies, projects, and evaluation. Students will learn about the role of corn as a source of energy, the importance of crop yield and…

Discusses the recent efforts by the Greek Comprehensive School to connect the school with natural, cultural and social environments. Provides an outline of a new textbook "Ecology and Environment." (TW)

Describes student work in collecting data about the Fresh Kills landfill in Staten Island and how their research contributed to the decision to close the landfill. Includes discussion of research into other trash alternatives for the area. (DDR)

States that the ecological role of Sphagnum species in peatlands is enormous. Presents a cation exchange experiment and background information on the characteristics and economic importance of Sphagnum. Contains 42 references. (DDR)

Examines five major curriculum theories: (1) information-based; (2) behavioral approaches; (3) community problem solving/action research; (4) integrated; and (5) bonding with nature. These theories touch on the role of action in environmental education programs. Also discusses the Action Learning Triangle--learning through action, learning from…

Presents research founded on a socio-ecological approach to environmental education that includes individual and structural aspects of environmental awareness and problem solving. Presents one instrument used in discussions with teacher teams. Contains 23 references. (DDR)

Details a project in which students assess the health of two seemingly different streams by conducting chemical and biological tests. Focuses on student and teacher use of a watershed educational project in Tennessee. (DDR)

Examines the existing elements in and the various approaches to the integrated curriculum development project in Nigeria. Analyzes the constraints and support systems which are likely to be helpful in environmental education at the secondary level. Suggests measures and guidelines that could enhance the process of curriculum integration. (DDR)

This paper describes the Environmental Challenges Project which will culminate in the production of a CD-ROM for use in environmental education in secondary schools. Disk contents include case studies of environmental problems and programs to facilitate learners' discussion of the issues raised. The constructivist pedagogy that informs the project…

Describes an extended role-playing game for middle school to post-secondary students centered around the sale of a forest and farm in Costa Rica. Takes an in-depth look at the question of what it takes to purchase and protect a tropical forest. (DDR)

Reviews the history and habits of the fungus commonly referred to as the "chestnut blight." Considers the impact of the blight and efforts to control it, offers personal and cultural reflections on the blight, and gives tips for incorporating the information into cross-disciplinary lessons. Contains 17 references. (WRM)