Compares and contrasts a historical approach to woodland studies with a conventional ecological approach. Suggests potential sources of information and areas for investigation for the historical ecologist. Also reviews a case study example that employed this strategy. (ML)

Proposes that leaf yeast serve as quick, inexpensive, and effective techniques for monitoring air quality. Outlines procedures and provides suggestions for data analysis. Includes results from sample school groups who employed this technique. (ML)

Discusses the use of leaf mines (formed by larvae of small moths or flies) and galls (wasps' larvae) in various insect population studies. Also considers the advantages of using these structures for instructional purposes. (DH)

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)

Proposes that biology classes spend more time studying living organisms in the field. Advantages and problems of fieldwork in towns are discussed and suggestions are made to help teachers ensure that classes obtain maximum benefit from their outdoor studies. Instructional strategies and a short list of useful texts are included. (Author/JN)

Describes a sixth-form field course consisting of written materials for students and a teacher's booklet giving necessary techniques, lists of apparatus, and practical hints. The course aims to estimate energy flows in a woodland ecosystem by means of a series of practical sessions involving field/laboratory investigations and calculations.…

The importance of examining both the natural history of organisms being investigated and numerical data from long-term field experiments is illustrated by describing a long-running field experiment at an English Field Study Council Centre. Sample results are discussed and alternative methods of using field studies in biology instruction are…

Discusses advantages of using an estuarine environment as a study area for A-level students and reviews organizational considerations. Details and references regarding a variety of suitable techniques are provided along with examples of results obtained by students at Waltham Forest College. (Author/DC)

Discusses the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). Founded in 1889, it is Europe's largest voluntary conservation organization with some 965,000 members. One of the organization's main goals is environmental education in schools and colleges and the society's junior membership. Another main thrust is its reserves in England for…