Discusses the background and events which lead to a career devoted to plant biochemistry and the study of vitamin synthesis. Describes laboratory studies which demonstrated that, in mammals, vitamin A is formed from beta-carotene as it crosses the intestinal wall. (RT)

Demonstrates the magnitude of an extinction event by using a simulation to illustrate the massive nature of the loss of a family and the number of species that perish to achieve that result. (RT)

Provides a format for the identification of fossils when introducing geologic time in the laboratory. Presents an organization of fossils into three major groups based on radial, bilateral, and no apparent symmetry. States that this method reinforces student learning and provides for an orderly approach to fossils. (RT)

A historically rich teaching intervention was developed for biological evolution with the intent of promoting a conceptual change from students' initial understanding to a more Darwinian understanding. Results from evaluation of the intervention indicate promise in the use of historical materials in conjunction with a conceptual change strategy.…

Outlines the development of the social responsibility of science movement and associated developments in teaching and reviews some of the materials available in light of the social responsibility of science. Provides a curriculum development framework illustrated by the example of the issue of biological diversity. (32 references) (Author/MKR)

Describes three census activities concerning birds and butterflies that involve students in the actual collection of biological data. A Project Feederwatch data form is also included. (ZWH)

Investigates the role of aesthetics in biological inquiry and in appreciation of the concepts of biology. The paper focuses on the role of rhythm in biological process and in aesthetic experience, offering teachers background in the aesthetics of biology so they can better include aesthetic aspects of the science in teaching. (SM)

Offers a simple experiment that tests the effectiveness of cleaners that inhibit bacterial growth. Outlines a step-by-step method for preparing culture media that can be used for isolation and propagation of microorganisms. Concludes that kitchen medium is as efficient as the professionally-made medium in supporting colony growth. (CCM)

Examines the knowledge that secondary school students have concerning some basic aspects related to the location of inheritance information before they are taught about genetics. Discusses the effects of traditional instruction in Spain on students' learning. (Author/CCM)

Presents an adaptation of an owl pellet activity that was developed to increase student interest in math and science. Provides a hand-out for student use. (YDS)

Offers examples of problems that assess student ability to recall, handle, manipulate, and interpret data and also reinforce basic knowledge of cell biology. The questions, purposely designed for first-year students, complement formal lectures and practical classes given in the subject. Illustrates the range and types of material which cell…

Introduces 25 creative science activities that are grouped under 4 categories: physical science, earth science, life science, and process activities. (MOK)

Describes a science experiment involving plant seeds where students observe the germination and plant growth. (YDS)

Argues that the barriers between the traditional biosciences have disappeared while interdisciplinarity has become commonplace. Presents the suggested standards for Ph.D. degrees in biochemistry and molecular biology recommended by the Committee on Education of the International Union of Biochemistry. (Author/CCM)

Presents a science activity on cellular mitosis for middle school students. (YDS)