Offers suggestions for incorporating topics that relate to the Apollo 13 space mission into a chemistry course. Discusses connections between the study of chemistry and space exploration, including fuels and oxidants used, reasons for an oxygen tank rupture, and lithium hydroxide-containing carbon dioxide filters. Contains 11 references. (WRM)

Briefly describes the terms "sex,""gender,""feminism,""pedagogy," and "feminist pedagogy," and outlines a set of themes common to feminist pedagogies. Discusses practical suggestions for incorporating feminist pedagogy into chemistry teaching. Contains 20 references. (WRM)

Describes the simple demonstration of precipitation reactions in large glass cylinders. The demonstration lasts an hour and is aesthetically impressive. (WRM)

Describes an iodine clock reaction incorporating sodium metabisulfite that can be used to demonstrate the kinetic order of a reaction. (WRM)

Presents a relatively short, simple, safe, and visual method for student preparation of chlorine, bromine, and iodine using reactants and glassware that are easy to obtain and handle. (WRM)

Describes a simple halogenation experiment that can be performed quickly in an open vessel at room temperature with visible light that is appropriate for the beginning weeks of an introductory organic chemistry course. (WRM)

Develops a taxonomy of styles for teaching general chemistry laboratory courses. Differentiates between expository instruction, inquiry instruction, discovery instruction, and problem-based instruction in the laboratory. Reviews research on the effectiveness of the various types of instruction. Contains 68 references. (WRM)

Discusses the complexity of chemistry concepts and the identification of instructional barriers in terms of current learning theories. Recommends teaching to improve students' conceptual understanding. Contains 34 references. (WRM)

Describes the development and evaluation of a placement test used as a major determinant of eligibility to enroll in first-semester general chemistry at California State University, Fullerton. Contains 17 references. (WRM)

Describes a first-year course in General Chemistry that incorporates the principles of active engagement and the learning cycle paradigm. Recommends student small-group instruction and guided-inquiry laboratory investigations. (WRM)

Presents examples of chemical education research that illustrate changes in focus, method, and direction over the past 50 years. Contains more than 50 references. (WRM)

Presents two classroom activities that help students visualize the concept of entropy and appreciate that entropy tends to increase spontaneously. Contains 20 references. (WRM)

Explains that no permanent energy change occurs in a macro object after it has been transported from one location to another or when a group of them is scattered randomly. (WRM)

Presents some general strategies for using writing in chemistry courses based on experiences in developing a systematic approach to using writing as an effective learning tool in chemistry courses, and testing this approach in high-enrollment general chemistry courses at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. Contains 18 references. (WRM)

Describes a senior-level capstone experience that integrates various communication and research skills to prepare chemistry majors for entry into graduate school and professional life. Contains 12 references. (WRM)