Describes a project that enables students to emulate a scientist in the classroom setting through collaboration on research projects, use of research literature, and communication with scientific peers. Student groups focus on investigations of the cellular and molecular aspects of a disease. (DDR)

Presents a lesson that uses the learning cycle to introduce the concept of classification and the use of dichotomous keys to identify plants and animals. Encourages students to become better observers and helps them gain confidence and experience in using simple classification keys. (JRH)

Discusses "The Big Empty" or, the Great Basin. Suggests that it is not empty but rather a great ecosystem rich in plants, animals, and minerals. Presents information and activities to guide students in exploring the Great Basin in order to understand the ways in which such an arid and seemingly harsh environment can support so many…

Describes The Flora of North America, the first comprehensive description of all plants growing spontaneously in North America. Discusses online resources, the publication as an educational resource, the published volumes, and scientific and planning applications. (JRH)

Presents a scenario-based anatomy exercise designed for middle schools students. Investigates the anatomy of alfalfa and sweet clover plants while focusing on seedling anatomy. (YDS)

Introduces a brine shrimp assay to demonstrate the effects of the biological activity of herbal remedies. Describes two protocols, one using aqueous extracts and the other using methanol extracts. (Contains 21 references.) (YDS)

Introduces gall-making insects and explains gall development. Explains how to bring galls into the classroom and conduct experiments. Suggests using gall systems to introduce students to the concepts of genetic control, biodiversity, plant and animal development, species interactions, biodiversity, and the flow of energy through the food web. (YDS)

Examined 10 introductory college-level, general biology survey textbooks for the coverage of algae to assess the efficacy of coverage. Describes a proposal of seven kingdoms and discusses the disposition of algae among five of these kingdoms. Contends that textbooks should highlight the concept of algae across the five kingdoms. Contains 59…

The South Pacific Action Committee for Human Ecology and Environment (SPACHEE) involved women in experiential workshops to explore forest ecosystems. The first phase focused on the forest environment, the second on documenting and promoting traditional medicine and medicinal plants, valuable local knowledge that can persuade people to protect the…

Describes the Amazonia exhibit at the Smithsonian's National Zoological Park, in Washington DC. The exhibit provides an example of the plant and animal life that exist in a tropical rain forest. (MDH)

Nine sixth-grade students were asked to identify plants by their common names. In the event that students did not know the correct response, researchers observed a variety of avoidance strategies. The study demonstrated that students at the elementary level should be introduced to the concept of genus before more abstract levels of the botanical…

Discusses botanical illustrations, including herbals, printed books, flowers, British botany, printing advances, and art and science. (23 references) (MKR)

Provides simple instructions for establishing an herbarium, in which the collecting and classifying of dried plants preserves a vital record of the status and variety of the flora found within particular locations at specific times. (Author/JJK)

Describes a method to collect seeds that are dispersed from weeds while avoiding some outdoor hazards such as rough terrain or animals. Describes a plan for creating a weed fishing pole and includes a materials list. (SAH)

Points out the usefulness of drawing for a biologist, how biologists spend time on it, and contrasts how teachers do not spent any time on drawing in biology education. Recommends starting drawing with plants because they are stationary. Provides drawing exercises and explains how to draw with different techniques. (Contains 12 references.) (YDS)