This paper reports on findings from an analysis of trait-formation tasks in the genetic sections of high school biology textbooks. Drawing on studies exploring a range of problems in students' explanations of trait formation, we investigated trait-formation tasks and analysed their potential for knowledge integration and multi-level mechanistic…

Our out-of-school practical exercise was designed to bring upper secondary school students in contact with one of the most exciting and expanding topics in biology today: epigenetics. In school, students only study the basics in genetics and the respective investigation techniques as provided by the syllabus. For a practical exercise in…

Describes a project in which fingerprint patterns were identified and analyzed to determine whether any positive relationship existed between pattern type and academic ability. (LS)

Describes a field exercise which links ecology and taxonomy in the teaching of the species concept. Two common hedgerow plants (red and white campions) are used as a pair of "species" that are normally distinct. Plants of intermediate character can be encountered, and the status of these plants is investigated. (Author/JN)

Describes an exercise in which senior high school biology students used a computer to simulate genetic mapping. The exercise was designed to enhance the students' grasp of the concepts of linkage and crossing-over. (JR)

Describes an approach to teaching the Hardy-Weinberg Law in high school genetics class. Instructional procedures used help in developing this concept in broad generalization form rather than merely a mathematical model of a gene pool. (PS)

"Take Two People" is a kit of model genes which can be made up in packs to represent people or gametes. The kit is simple to make and highly adaptable. It has been useful and effective in teaching genetics to students of low ability and little motivation. (Author/JN)

Presents excerpts from a teacher's manual which describes laboratory activities in genetics for advanced secondary school biology students. Maximized are the pedagogical aspects in choosing activities, arriving at intermediate decision-points, and planning the evaluation of pupil achievement. (CS)

Suggests and describes laboratory activities in which the Mexican axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum Shaw) is used, including experiments in embryology and early development, growth and regeneration, neoteny and metamorphosis, genetics and coloration, anatomy and physiology, and behavior. Discusses care and maintenance of animals. (CS)

Described is an investigation of the contributions of genes and environment to a quantitative character using readily available varieties of dwarf beans. Included are a list of materials, typical results, and a student instruction sheet. (CW)

Described is a laboratory experiment that can be used to investigate bacterial survival in soil or water as well as the study of genetic transfer via conjugation. Discussed are materials, laboratory procedures, typical results, and a list of six references. (CW)

Presented are several ideas for projects involving ladybird beetles. Discussed is background information about the insects; and projects involving life histories, intra-specific variation, taxonomy, genetics, behavior, ecology, habitat surveys, population biology, and overwintering biology. Lists 12 references. (CW)