An enzyme exercise to address the problem of students inability to visualize chemical reaction at the molecular level is described. This exercise is designed as a dry lab exercise but can be modified into a classroom activity then can be augmented by a wet lab procedure, thereby providing students with a practical exposure to enzyme function.

Student writing can provide opportunities for reflection on concept mastery for both students and teacher, and the creation of a biology portfolio by each student can allow a teacher to assess the level of understanding achieved by each individual as well as timely correction of conceptual errors. The use of portfolio is an assessment tool, which…

Science and technology are closely related yet one is an integral part of school science curricula and the other is not. Suggests that science teachers can introduce the role and importance of technology in science programs. (NB)

Ball State University has developed a diverse offering of courses available by interactive television as one way to increase access to higher education and provide lifelong learning opportunities. Explains how to develop a general studies biology course for interactive television. Topics include course formats, course design, copyright issues, the…

The use of instant agar-free media in high school biology classes is discussed. The synthetic media are relatively inexpensive, heat stable, dependable, and time-saving. (Author/PEB)

Scientific challenges are presented to motivate secondary and college students in creative thinking and scientific problem solving. Student solutions to the "Create-a-Creature" challenge are presented and six new challenges are issued. (PEB)

Presented is a short discussion of factors causing color changes in animals. Also described is an activity which may be used to demonstrate the response of amphibian skin to a melanophore stimulating hormone in high school or college biology classes. (PEB)