New science standards and reform recommendations spanning grades K--16 focus on a limited set of key scientific concepts from each discipline that all students should know. They also emphasize the integration of these concepts with science practices so that students learn not only the "what" of science but also the "how" and…

Many plant biologists claim that there is a tremendous bias towards the study of animals in science curricula, however, there is even less attention given to topics on fungi. On average, Biology laboratory manuals will have only one fungi exercise, and most of the time, it is mainly descriptive. As we developed this exercise we realized how much…

Describes a new college values program that focuses on how values are formed and their influences on our understanding and treatment of the environment. (LS)

Describes a course in life science for nurses designed to present information through 90 modules which extend over four 12-week terms. Each module is designed to be a self-contained, independent unit and focuses primarily on a single topic. (Author/PEB)

Presents the results of a survey which examines the structure and organization of first-year biology courses in 68 colleges and universities. (JR)

Using aerial photographs to study shrubs biomass allows students to avoid unpleasant working conditions and to study communities that are inaccessible or distant. (BB)

This laboratory exercise integrates the topics of cell structure, classification of living organisms, and evolution. It is suitable for secondary or college biology courses and was used in an interdisciplinary science course for nonscience majors. (BB)

Reviews major developments in areas that are at the cutting edge of biological research. Areas include: human anti-cancer gene, recombinant DNA techniques for the detection of Huntington disease carriers, and marine biology. (CW)

Presents some strategies that have been used to overcome problems in instructional areas of introductory biology programs. Focuses on maintaining an emphasis on inquiry, developing the process of science, the design of process laboratory activities, reducing cookbook laboratory orientation, and educating staff. (CW)

Describes an approach to teaching population genetics and evolution and some of the ways models can be used to enhance understanding of the processes being studied. Discusses the instructional plan, and the use of models including utility programs and analysis with models. Provided are a basic program and sample program outputs. (CW)

Discusses the main objectives of ecohistory and sources of information for this study. Details five themes that are important for students to know about the history of ecology including the history of Earth, fauna and flora, the human species, human civilization, and changes in the human environment. (CW)

Describes a laboratory activity that is adaptable to several levels of biology students. Discusses methods for obtaining hellgrammites, performing the experiment, and analyzing the data. Includes sample charts and graphs. (CW)

Describes a basic biotechnology investigation that includes restriction and ligation of plasmid DNA, transformation of bacteria and cloning of these bacterial cells. Discusses laboratory procedures and another activity in the identification of unknown plasmids by studying agarose gel electrophoresis photographs. (CW)

Describes the procedures used to demonstrate transpiration with the common sunflower. Discusses the results expected from such an activity. Provided is a sample data sheet. (CW)

Presented is a sample hybridoma assay which can be used in a research or classroom laboratory setting for instructional purposes. Described are experimental methods, materials, and observations made during this activity. (CW)