Summarizes the current state of genetics, highlighting major historical events in the development of the field and discussing topics related to introns ("silent" or noncoding base sequences in eucaryotic genes) and exons (the coding parts of DNA). (JN)

Discusses (1) types of fires; (2) how to extinguish them; (3) how to use a hand-held fire extinguisher; and (4) what to do in case of fires in schools. (JN)

Compares the performance of ninth-grade students on 30 common test items given during the First (1970) and Second (1983) International Science Study, including differences related to sex. Findings, among others, show that overall, students in 1983 scored higher than their predecessors in 1970. (JN)

Describes (in five separate articles) successful programs across the country in which business and education have paired up for the benefit of both. They include an intensive six-week summer program in which students join an Iowa State University research team (funded by the Iowa Utility Commission). (JN)

Shows how electronic spreadsheets can be used in science classrooms for such tasks as ordering and keeping track of supplies and for organizing experiments. Sample printouts of records prepared by use of the spreadsheets are included. (JN)

Discusses learning modalities and learning styles in science education. Learning modalities characterize the way the brain takes in information (input) and restructures/expresses the information (output). Learning styles are ways that information is processed once it is obtained. Examples (including Kolb's "Learning-Style Inventory") are included.…

Discusses highlights in the development of genetic engineering, examining techniques with recombinant DNA, legal and ethical issues, GenBank (a national database of nucleic acid sequences), and other topics. (JN)

Shows how the use of pulleys can add a new direction to experiments that demonstrate forces. Procedures used and typical student results are included. (JN)

Presents a scenario related to the disposal of potentially dangerous ether. Several suggestions for dealing with peroxide-forming compounds are included. (JN)

Describes how relevant aspects of environmental education can be integrated within the framework of contemporary high school chemistry. Examples which show how students can examine the chemical consequences of such social factors as smoking and drinking are provided. (JN)

Focuses on science competitions by describing the objectives of and strategies used in several types of school competitions. Includes, when applicable, sources of additional information on specific programs (such as the Duracell Scholarship Competition and the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium). (JN)

Introduces the unique interfacing equipment for measuring muscle strength over time. Explains the materials, setup method, operation, and typical display. Suggests other activities with which to utilize this device. (YP)

Reports concepts which 12th-grade physics students hold about motion before and after a lecture is given. Compares quantitative and qualitative research methodology and describes some responses to test items. Shows six questions, student responses, and typical incorrect explanations used by students. (YP)

Introduces a system for grading independent research projects. Recommends the use of three grading periods to avoid the overload of the grading duties in short periods and to provide students step by step guides. Shows an outline of the system including due dates, duties and grading criteria. (YP)

Introduced is a project for constructing a can device for a race. Discussed are some applications for teaching physical science. A diagram of a can device is included. (YP)