Describes a computer program simulating seasonal population growth and decline in a honeybee colony as an ecological teaching aid. Program listing for Pet microcomputers (in BASIC) is included. (JN)

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)

Suggests that programing can bring about an understanding of several biological concepts which, because of their arithmetic implication, are often considered to be difficult. Population growth is used to illustrate the proposal, in which computing and the study of the topic are integrated. (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)

Using percolating filters (components of sewage treatment process) reduces problems of organization, avoids damage to habitats, and provides a local study site for field work or rapid collection of biological material throughout the year. Component organisms are easily identified and the habitat can be studied as a simple or complex system.…

Describes equipment for recording human breathing (stethographs, tambors, spirometers), construction of pooters (pipettes), field exercise on examining epiphyte distribution on tree bark, and vertebrate skeleton models for teaching locomotion. Includes abstract of student research project examining pH on Colpoda encystment and reviews of…

The shore crab (Carcinus maenas) is an excellent subject for school study, both in the field and the laboratory. It is easily collected and maintained and can be used for a wide range of investigations. Some background details are given and possible areas of investigation suggested. (Author)

Describes a computer program based upon field observations of littoral zonation modified by a small stream. The program employs user-defined color graphic characters to display simulated ecological maps representing the patterning of organisms in response to local values of niche limiting factors. (Author/JN)

The use of mobiles to illustrate a number of basic principles in ecology teaching is rewarding, particularly with less able students, and an attractive end-product to decorate the biology laboratory. Suggestions for constructing the mobiles and a diagram of a sample mobile are provided. (Author/JN)

Some simple field investigations on plant water relations are described which demonstrate links between physiological and external environmental factors. In this way, a more complex picture of a plant and how it functions within its habitat and the effects the environment has on it can be built up. (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.…

Techniques for examining terrestrial and aquatic microorganisms using flattened glass capillaries are described. Capillaries can be left in natural or artificial environments for appropriate periods of time and removed for direct microscopic examination. Examples of organisms observed using the technique are given and suggestions made for wider…

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…

Describes collection of quantitative samples of microorganisms and accumulation of physical data from a pond over a year. Provides examples of how final-year degree students have used materials and data for ecological projects (involving mainly algae), including their results/conclusions. Also describes apparatus and reagents used in the student…

While ecology is usually regarded as a subject/topic in six-form biology teaching, it is recommended that it be treated as a joint theme with physiology throughout the course. This involves a full integration of ecological concepts into other topics with the abolition of ecology as a discrete entity. (Author/JN)