Discusses predicting common oxidation numbers, uncommon oxidation numbers, hydrogen-phosphorus bonds and other examples. (PVD)

Presents an analogy that relates the one-dimensional mechanical equilibrium of a rigid block between two Hooke's law springs and the chemical equilibrium of two perfect gases using ordinary materials. (PVD)

This study examined the cognitive development of students enrolled in three levels of freshman chemistry courses and focused on changes in spatial ability over time. Results indicate that performance on general Piagetian-type tasks, including spatial visualization, can be refined through educational intervention. Concludes that students appear…

Four different methods of teaching--cooperative learning, class discussions, concept maps, and lectures--were integrated into a freshman-level general chemistry course to compare students' levels of participation. Findings support the idea that multiple modes of learning foster the metacognitive skills necessary for mastering general chemistry.…

Describes a set of experiments using a UV-VIS spectrometer to identify food colorings and to measure the pH of soft drinks. The first laboratory component uses locations and shapes of visible absorption peaks as a means of identifying dyes while the second portion uses the spectrometer for determining pH. (PVD)

Describes several experiments to teach different aspects of the statistical analysis of data using household substances and a simple analysis technique. Each experiment can be performed in three hours. Students learn about treatment of spurious data, application of a pooled variance, linear least-squares fitting, and simultaneous analysis of dyes…

Describes three calculations used to make students aware of the size of Avogadro's number: (1) the new size of a 6-inch diameter ball with volume increased by a factor of Avogadro's number; (2) the number of moles of sand grains in the Sahara Desert; and (3) the dimensions and length of a mole of hydrogen atoms shaped into a cube, a square, and a…

Presents instructions for putting a hard-boiled egg inside a bottle whose opening is slightly smaller than the egg's circumference, and for getting the egg out of the bottle. Also describes variations of the demonstration such as cooling the flask or using a banana. Cites incorrect and correct explanations of the demonstrated phenomenon. Contains…

Describes the construction and use of a spectroscope using a compact disk as a reflection grating. Lists instructions for viewing emission spectra of white or fluorescent light sources or discharge tubes, and absorption spectra of colored solutions. Includes modified directions and expanded activities. Contains 16 references. (WRM)

Explains a way of observing pattern formation in the Blue Bottle chemistry demonstration by pouring a solution containing sodium hydroxide, glucose, and dye into a Petri dish and placing the dish on an overhead projector. (WRM)

Describes the adaptation of thermite (aluminum with metal oxides) reactions from whole-class demonstrations to student-run micro-reactions. Lists detailed directions and possible variations of the experiment. (WRM)

Contends that developing computer displays of dynamic motion offers a means to help students understand complex chemistry concepts. Describes how to set up a computer animation team, gives an example of the animation of chemical processes in a standard hydrogen electrode, illustrates how to teach with animations, recommends hardware and software…

The Council on Undergraduate Research is dedicated to strengthening science and undergraduate science education. Central to Council-sponsored activities and programs is the recognition that the investigative process, especially undergraduate student research, plays a key role in undergraduate science education. Council publications, conferences,…

Scientific illiteracy in society begins in grade school, but preservice elementary teachers typically take only one or two disconnected science courses towards certification. Faculty from four disciplines developed an integrated science course tailored for elementary education majors. Students learn the importance of a well-rounded scientific…

Describes a senior seminar format designed around broad year-long subjects. This alleviates disconnectedness by building upon material learned weekly. One format highlight is that students choose topics from a list for reading, research, and background preparation to lead a discussion. They also submit research papers on their topic. The new…