Discusses the nature and effects of the El Nino/Southern Oscillation phenomenon. Indicates that new understanding of the phenomenon from current data will provide a global view of climate that has never before been within reach. (JN)

Describes an inexpensive and convenient way to solve the problem of maintaining the proper humidity needed in incubation chambers. (JN)

Describes a recently discovered and translated work by Archimedes in which he constructed a balance to determine the amount of gold in an alloy of gold and silver. A description of the balance (translated verbatim) as found in Archimedes' work "On Balances" is included. (JN)

Materials from a student-made kit are used to investigate physics phenomena while riding on various amusement park rides. A list of materials contained in the kit and procedures for their use are included. (JN)

Describes the basic components of a space telescope that will be launched during a 1986 space shuttle mission. These components include a wide field/planetary camera, faint object spectroscope, high-resolution spectrograph, high-speed photometer, faint object camera, and fine guidance sensors. Data to be collected from these instruments are…

Describes the use of a Pac-Man model (called a Pactype) in teaching various genetics concepts. Indicates that students can learn to make predictions, analyze patterns of inheritance, and evaluate hypotheses before being introduced to the genetics vocabulary. (JN)

Discusses the educational system in Germany, focusing on science education in the academically oriented Gymnasium. Typical curricular patterns and instructional strategies are included. Also includes a chart comparing the routing of students through American and German school systems. (JN)

Describes a second year, high school biology course in which students learn how to do independent investigations. Focuses on the research methodology used by the students (including Campbell and Stanley designs) and instructional strategies. (JN)

Describes a student science exposition which includes individual research and team competitions, noncompetitive student exhibits, films, tours, workshops, and social events. Indicates that this combination of activities makes the exposition a real science "fair." (JN)

Reports on a study of 1981-82 science enrollment in United States public and private secondary schools. Geographical regions are compared, and trends with 1976-77 data are addressed. Information on grade level and different courses is given. (DH)

Discusses National Science Teachers Association plans to set up regional science teacher certification committees. Also discusses trends in science requirements and resultant certification needs and provides a rationale for science teacher control of science teaching standards. (DH)

Discusses the rationale for using photochemistry to merge descriptive chemistry and molecular orbital theory in first-year chemistry courses. Includes procedures and safety information for various activities, demonstrations, and experiments involving photochemical reactions. (DH)

A game is used to study population control factors on a wolf pack and to explore human competition with these animals. A game board and chance cards to be photocopied for use in the classroom are provided. (DH)

Presents ideas for using model trains as a teaching tool and/or minicourse in junior high school science classes. Students investigate such topics as electric motor operation, electric potential, resistance, electromagnets, transformers, switches, centripetal force, cam mechanism, circuitry and wiring techniques, and ammeters. Directions for…

Enumerates several techniques to determine what are acceptable levels of risk in society. Discusses cancer, regulation, and human responsibility. Lists several no-risk discussion topics for the classroom. (DH)