Three experiments demonstrating basic properties of the active transport system in the Malpighian tubule are described. These include a demonstration of dye uptake by the tubule, effect of metabolic inhibitors on dye uptake, and temperature effects on active transport. (JN)

Fifteen stations are used for a laboratory examination which focuses on evaluation of laboratory techniques, skills, procedures, and information management. Examples of several stations (with related questions) are provided. Areas measured include bacterial and cellular culturing, staining, and transferring procedures, genetics…

Title, author(s), publisher, price, and review are provided for nine computer oriented publications. These include books related to the use of microcomputers in educational settings, computer assisted instruction, LOGO programming language, and the role of the computer in schools as a tutor, tool, and tutee. (JN)

Background information on the morphology and physiology of planarians and uses of the organism in schools is provided. Also provided is a transparency master demonstrating a planarian with an everted proboscis, two-headed/two-tailed planarians, and a planarian demonstrating the digestive tract. (JN)

Describes ways platyfish can be utilized in biology activities and experiments. Includes an account of the animals' care, unique anatomical characteristics, reproductive behavior, and genetics. (DS)

Describes an interdisciplinary minicourse on dinosaur fossils, morphology, ethology, and energetics. Suggests and provides examples of hands-on activities for junior high school- through college-level students. (DS)

Provides examples of several classroom activities utilizing the American horseshoe crab (Limulus Polyphemus), including raising fertilized eggs, fertilizing eggs in vitro, and testing water samples. Includes background information on the natural history, life cycle, and breeding habits of this animal. (DS)

Examines the pros and cons of laboratory instruction. Complaints lodged against laboratory instruction include its high cost, and lack of research supporting the lab. Justifications listed include science education research supporting the lab, psychology, and common sense. (DS)

Presents a new department in this journal titled "Biology Olympics." Presents justification for this department and discusses the first three "challenges" focusing on: (1) model-building, (2) plant biology, and (3) human biology. (DS)

Suggests individual student projects for extra-credit work to enhance student individuality. Provides a sample information sheet for independent projects (with suggested activities), a listing of project requirements, and a project evaluation checklist. (DS)

Describes an introductory zoology course which includes: (1) lectures organized on the basis of taxonomic relationships; (2) out-of-class reading assignments from nontraditional sources such as magazines; (3) laboratories for microscope analysis and dissection; and (4) a separate self-paced laboratory. (DS)

Reports on an island ecology course offered by Eastern Connecticut State College providing opportunities for students to study the ecology and natural history of organisms found in a variety of subtropical habitats in Bermuda. Explains student selection criteria, trip preparation, evaluation criteria, daily programs, and habitats studied on the…

Presents a series of tried and tested ideas for making the college and high school biology laboratory a place where students can become active investigators. Focuses on infusing investigative laboratories into existing courses, laboratory equipment, student capabilities, instructor time, and student and instructor attitudes toward laboratory…

Describes a self-paced undergraduate environmental science course focusing on a theme that earth is similar to a spaceship inasmuch as: (1) both possess finite room and resources, and (2) living things are dependent upon life-support systems for continued survival. Includes a list of laboratory and learning activities. (DS)

Describes the modification of computer programs (BISON and POLLUT) to accommodate species and areas indigenous to the Pacific Coast area. Suggests that these programs, suitable for PET microcomputers, may foster a long-term, ongoing, inquiry-directed approach in biology. (DS)