Describes ways that computer-assisted instruction (CAI) is used in a high school biology course, including: (1) mastery of specific objectives; (2) CAI as a self-check; (3) computer games; (4) laboratory simulations; (5) genetics instruction; (6) writing programs; and (7) remedial assistance and testing. (CS)

Plate tectonics is the current framework for understanding earth history and processes. Recent progress in this field is discussed, focusing on continental growth, mountain building, hot spots, and mineral depositions. (JN)

Because student writing in science is often routine (note taking, completing lab reports, paraphrasing information), suggestions are offered to allow students to expand ideas, synthesize information, and use their imaginations. The 25 activities described are designed to add variety to classwork and to encourage students to think creatively.…

Instructions for constructing contour models from topographic maps are presented. Includes materials needed, sources of topographic maps, tips for drawing lines, and preparing the model using cardboard. Indicates that the model is a valuable instructional tool for turning topographic maps into "real" contours of land. (Author/JN)

The ERIC Clearinghouse for Science, Mathematics, and Environmental Education (SMEAC) screens, abstracts, and indexes a variety of published and unpublished documents in science education. Suggestions for tapping the resources of the ERIC system are provided: computer searches, manual searches, and use of ERIC fact sheets and other materials.…

Describes an instructional strategy to develop creative thinking. Students learn what information scientists had prior to formulation of an idea and attempt to devise their own solutions to the problem. However, no experimentally verified solution to the problem is known. Advantages to this approach are discussed. (Author/JN)

Because many people still believe that specific, identifiable genes dictate the level of human intelligence and that the number/quality of these genes can be evaluated, presents evidence from human genetics (related to nervous system development) to counter this view. Also disputes erroneous assumptions made in "heritability studies" of human…

Active involvement in society-related issues can elevate junior high school students' interest not only in the problem being solved but also in related scientific concepts. Examples of how scientific concepts and society-related issues can be taught in the same class are presented, focusing on genetic engineering, water shortage, and others.…

Examples of the use of hieroglyphics (glyphs) in science and medicine are presented. Suggests having academically talented science students use glyphs to make their own pictorial representations of their own data. (JN)

National Science Teachers Association has cited 50 science education programs as national exemplars in the 1982 Search for Excellence in Science Education. Programs are listed under these headings: elementary science, biology, physical science, science/technology/society, and inquiry. (Author/JN)

Discusses sources of energy education materials, including businesses, industries, and private organizations. Provides names/addresses of principle energy trade associations and guidelines for evaluating energy education materials developed by the private sector. (JN)

Discusses four basic forces/interactions in nature (strong force, weak force, electromagnetic force and gravity), associated with elementary particles. Focuses on "gauge bosons" (for example, photons), thought to account for strong, weak, and electromagnetic forces. (Author/JN)

Occupational burnout is the result of one's response to stress. Discusses various aspects of teacher burnout and offers suggestions for handling stress and 10 hints for avoiding burnout, including delegating some responsibility to students, learning to say "no" to excessive demands, and engaging in outside activities for personal enrichment.…

Describes five physics demonstrations using inexpensive and easily obtainable materials. Demonstrations include: (1) sinking ice cubes and diffusion; (2) returnable can; (3) persistent currents in a liquid; (4) light scattering by milk particles; and (5) rotation of a plane of polarization. (JN)

Student activities in an interdisciplinary, model rocket science program are described, including the construction of an Ohio Scientific computer system with graphic capabilities for use in the program and cooperative efforts with the Rocket Research Institute. (JN)