We have had a few enquiries recently asking whether it is permissible for learners to use solutions of lead compounds in Advanced Higher project work.
The latest bulletin can be accessed by clicking on the images below.
All the other bulletins can be accessed via links in the table below.
NOTE :- When following health & safety or equipment advice you should be aware of when the advice was published e.g. Bulletins from a number of years ago will only contain advice that was applicable at that time For up-to-date advice concerning health & safety please follow the links advised in Health & Safety on the Main Menu. If you are at all unsure please contact us at SSERC.
Activities & Professional Learning: The Reintroduction of Assignments
Editorial about what SSERC can do to help with this.
Bandsaws are versatile machines, that are commonplace in school workshops as they allow for precision cutting of wood and various wood-based materials. However, the effectiveness of a bandsaw greatly depends on the quality, condition and type of blade used.
Microscale biology: fermentation in a pipette
At SSERC, we’ve been developing a suite of experiments on a smaller scale. This article will explore a small-scale fermentation that takes place in the bulb of a pipette.
The delegates of cohort 2 on our Leadership in STEM Education course continue to make excellent progress as they work towards the completion of their professional enquiry.
SSERC Professional Learning courses
A list of our upcoming offerings.
Professional Learning Reflections from three newly qualified teachers
In this section, three newly qualified teachers reflect on their experience of attending Professional Learning Courses at SSERC: Jordan Summers (Design and Technology teacher), Louise Evans (Biology teacher) and James Meechan (Chemistry teacher)
The Microbiology in Schools Advisory Committee has a range of learning and teaching resources to support your practice.
How the melting point of an unknown sample or one of unknown purity can be determined using various methods and not breaking the bank?
We first saw this apparatus at the 2023 IOP Stirling physics teachers meeting. We were impressed by the thought that had gone into the design and the very reasonable cost. We received the apparatus for evaluation and here we review how it could be used.
An introduction to our new programme manager and our new STEM Leader 7 Award
An introduction to our new programme manager and our new STEM Leader 7 Award.
An overview of the STEM Ambassador Programme including the launch of the Scottish STEM Placement Programme
This article is about the information that school science departments working with radioactive
materials should pass on to their employers.
A brief reflection on keeping an animal in school.
We have had a few enquiries recently asking whether it is permissible for learners to use solutions of lead compounds in Advanced Higher project work.
This bulletin article provides health and safety advice related to the use of UV lamps in experiments design to simulate the spread of microbes using commercially available lotions, e.g. Glitter Bug.
Quick Disposable Dust mask Guidance
This article gives a brief description of the types of disposable dust masks that are available and which are suitable and not suitable for use in Technology departments.
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
The first in a series of articles exploring the Health and Safety legislations htat determines what we are and are not allowed to do in our schools and colleges. Starting off with the Act of parliament that underpins all of our modern regulations.
Activities and Professional Learning
Editorial – The Educational Value of Practical Work
Now Assignments have now been reintroduced, we reflect on reinforcing the importance of practical work in the STEM Curriculum.
Using-an-LED-as-a-single-photon-detector
In this article we describe how it is possible to use a reverse biased LED as a photon detector.
A simple demonstration to demonstrate damping in a variety of forms: under, critical and overdamping.
A look at the use of indicators in a variety of chemistry contexts: pH indicators, redox indicators, compleximetric indicators and more.
Professional Learning at SSERC
An overview of what we have com9ing up in the field of Professional Learning
Phosphorylase: moving from N5 to AH
This bulletin article provides a protocol for a synthesis reaction catalysed by phosphorylase, suitable at N5 level. In addition, opportunities for progression to AH level are demonstrated through colorimetry, production of a dilution series and a standard curve to estimate the concentration of starch synthesis in the reaction.
STEM Engagement
Health and Safety
Recently, a school reported to us that an abattoir had requested a form from Food Standard Scotland becompleted prior to dispatching any materials.
Having researched this, SSERC can now provide updated guidance to schools who wish to obtain animal byproducts (ABPs) from abattoirs/slaughterhouses in Scotland. The guidance does not extend to materials obtained from butchers or other commercial premises, e.g. supermarkets.
Working with radioactive sources – training
It is a legal requirement that anyone working with radioactive sources receives training first and that the training is recorded and also that the training
is refreshed at appropriate intervals.
In this article we cover the types of training that can meet these legal obligations.
Activities and Professional Learning
Python, Pandas & Physics Pendulums
The core of this article is about damped simple harmonic oscillation at Advanced Higher Physics but it is multidisciplinary in nature, incorporating elements of maths, computer science and data science.
SSERC Professional Learning Courses
Update on our upcoming professional learning (PL) courses and events for teachers in both
primary and secondary settings, school technicians, and other educators.
Scotland’s “rich urban and rural environments” present enormous potential for delivering the Curriculum for Excellence in a meaningful way to engage young people in their learning, as outlined in Education Scotland’s key document “Curriculum for excellence through outdoor learning”
Hear more about the progress of our new course which is being piloted for aspiring and existing school leaders in STEM.
The current academic year has seen the launch of our Leadership in STEM Education professional learning course for both early years & primary and secondary cohorts. This course represents a significant addition to our list of professional learning offers for educators in Scotland, and the pilot year is proving to be a success.
Readying learners for a data-driven world
Data skills are to the 21st Century what reading and writing were to the 20th. This article covers some of the approaches and resources to help teach data literacy..
Technology professional learning
This article provides an outline summary of the current technology course offering. A brief describing of each course and a quick “glance” at what topics are covered on each.
STEM Engagement
With so much activity going on within STEM engagement at SSERC, the team has taken the opportunity to give a comprehensive round-up of all our programmes.
Health and Safety
Contrary to what some people think, you can still keep and use mercury thermometers – they just need a little more care than other liquid in glass designs.
The dose of radiation you get by carrying out a school demonstration is very low. In this article, we look at what dose is, how we reduce it and how the dose from school activities compares with other common practices.
An overview of the health and safety implications of working with mud versus soil samples, with respect to microbiology, and how to safely sample human blood for microscopy.
Activities & Professional Learning
A look at the different methods for generating oxygen for use in the laboratory.
List of upcoming secondary and technician courses. Including a brief description of new courses for 2022/23.
Stephen Watson, a Biology teacher from Berwickshire High School in the Scottish Borders, reflects on his professional learning experience on the Biology Summer School in June 2022.
Biology Summer School – The Roslin Trip
Lauren King, a Biology teacher from Auchmuty High School in Fife, reflects on her professional learning at the Easter Bush Science Outreach Centre (EBSOC) (Roslin Institute) during the Biology Summer School in June 2022.
Wider STEM Engagement
Young STEM Leaders at Barrhead
List of upcoming events linked to the WSE programmes from SSERC.
Health and Safety
A look at the hazards of glass in the laboratory or prep-room.
Working with radioactive materials – HSE inspections
The Health and Safety Executive’s Field Operations Division is undertaking a programme of inspections across England, Wales and Scotland to see how schools manage the safe use and storage of the radioactive sources used in science teaching. Here’s what to do.
Chemicals in Early Years settings and Primary schools
Activities & Professional Learning
A review of our British Science Week resource, “Our Growing Brain”, in partnership with STEM Ambassadors in Scotland.
List of upcoming secondary and technician courses from May 2022 to February 2023. Including a brief description of new courses for 2022/23.
Making a DIY desiccator for keeping chemicals dehydrated.
Newton’s Rings experiment using an LED light source. As Low pressure Sodium lamps are increasingly more difficult to source, we look at using a yellow LED light source as an alternative.
In response to a recent enquiry, we look at an experiment using a simple constant current source (LM334z) to show that Q=CV.
Wider STEM Engagement
Activities for Young STEM Leaders to lead in Technologies
Update on the Nuffield Research Placements programme, including evaluation from last year’s cycle.
Highlighting STEM Ambassadors, what they have to offer and how to engage with them.
List of upcoming events linked to the WSE programmes from SSERC.
Make ‘space’ for partnership working
A look at how an emerging partnership between SSERC and the Aero Space Scientific Educational Trust (ASSET) has potential to benefit space education to be benefit of learners in Scotland.
The STEM Ambassadors in Scotland team has achieved the IiV Award, demonstrating our commitment to enhancing our volunteers’ experiences.
STEM Ambassadors in Scotland Week
Information, events and resources available for secondary practitioners from STEM Ambassadors in Scotland to celebrate STEM Ambassadors in Scotland Week 2022
Nuffield Research Placements and ESERO-UK Space Champion
Our new STEM Enrichment Partnerships with Nuffield Research Placements and ESERO-UK have now been launched
Digital Xtra enabling digital creativity across Scotland
The Digital Xtra Fund is an opportunity for schools to receive financial assistance towards digital projects that can link closely with the Young STEM Leader Programme and the STEM Ambassador Programme
The SSERC team has developed a trio of microbiological experiments suitable for BGE Science classes, incorporating important health and safety advice throughout.
SSERC professional learning courses
List of upcoming secondary and technician courses from January to June 2022.
Home and dry – drying agents in organic chemistry
After running into problems during an Advanced Higher practical, we decided to look into the drying of organic liquids and review the different agents that can be used.
Investigating equipotentials and electric fields
We all love demonstrating electric fields with castor oil and semolina. However, this method using conductive plastic has the advantage of linking fields with equipotentials, leading to some quantitative work.
Health and Safety
Meet the newest member of the team.
Electrical Safety and PAT update
An update to inform you of the new equipment class introduced in IET 5th edition Code of Practice for In-Service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment : – CLASS 2(FE)
We have recently had a few reports of data projector bulbs exploding. Many of these contain mercury. We assess the risks and offer advice on how to reduce the likelihood and deal with the situation should it arise.
SSERC has produced a poster that you can download and display in your staff base, prep room or classroom. Here’s what we’ve done and why we’ve done it.
Working with radioactive sources – risk assessment
Information on the newly available example operational radiation risk assessments SSERC has produced. These focus on the information and control measures that need to be considered by the user when performing standard school demonstrations with radioactive sources. Find out where to access them and how they should be used.
It would be easy to concentrate on the negatives associated with the pandemic, but it has driven change that will help shape the new – and better – normal.
SPARKvue is Pasco’s application for collecting and analysing data from the company’s sensors.
It is not as powerful as their Capstone software but is free for IOS, Android and Chrome OS.
Versions are also available for PC and Mac operating systems, at a cost.
SSERC Accredited Centre Programme
Accessing meaningful, relevant professional learning is key to the ongoing professional learning of school technicians and teachers in Scotland. This can be a challenging endeavour, depending upon where you are located in the country. With this in mind, we have established the SSERC Accredited Centre Programme.
Heating effect of a current – a favourite demonstration
This safe, simple activity demonstrates the heating effect of an electric current. As a bonus, it can also be used to promote discussion on the topics of energy conservation and electric vehicles.
SSERC professional learning courses
A list of our upcoming professioal learning courses up to the end of March 2022.
Education Manager of Biology – Dr Annie McRobbie
An introduction to our new Biology specialist, taking up the reins after the retirement of Kate Andrews.
Some years ago, we published details of an experiment [1] to determine the rate and order of a reaction simply using the decolourising of blue food dye by household bleach. Since then, there have been various changes in formulations of food colourings by manufacturers so we thought it worthwhile revisiting what is a useful experiment.
The next big STEM Ambassadors event is imminent: Maths Week Scotland (MWS) is a celebration of the importance of maths in our everyday lives.
5 activities for Young STEM Leaders to lead in the science classroom
If you are looking for some tried and tested activities for Young STEM Leaders (YSLs) to lead in the classroom then look no further.
Here is a summary of five engaging, enjoyable STEM activities that your YSLs can deliver to complete their STEM leadership hours.
During the recent spell of hot weather, we have been receiving queries from concerned technicians about high temperatures in their chemical stores.
We also address the matter of leaving doors open to improve ventilation.
We now have a Google Map, showing the location of a large number of sites relating to the history of chemistry in Scotland. Locations where well-known Scottish Scientists were born, lived and died and where they are buried. Sites relating to the boom in the Shale oil industry in Scotland (mainly) in the 19th century. Sites of chemical-related industries from gunpowder factories through to oil refineries – and many more.
Cognitive Load Theory and Experimental Instructions
A look through some a different approach to experimental instructions that are constructed in line with Cognitive Load Theory that could make it easier for some pupils at least to be able to follow an experimental protocol more independently. The examples given are for chemistry but the method is applicable much more widely.
Finding g using a water stream
An activity aimed at Advanced Higher physics: we showcase another method to add to those already available for the determination of g. It uses measurements of the narrowing of a stream of water from a tap.
SSERC professional learning courses
Ann update on our professional learning operations. Face-to-face courses will take place with the appropriate COVID processes and procedures in place,
including social distancing that are in place at the time of thier taking place. (The programme is of course subject to change so keep an eye on the SSERC professional learning calendar for up to date information.).
Whilst preparing our Bulletin article on Tracker – a truly superb open source motion analysis program – we were reminded of other great free or open source Apps that we use regularly in our mobile devices course or software that we use as part of other workshops.
To assist in the knowledge of basic woodturning techniques, we have been working at SSERC to put in place a 2-day woodturning course for teachers and technicians. In the interim, we have put together a series of short articles as a guide covering the equipment, safety, tools, and processes used in woodturning. We will look at each area in turn over the next few bulletins.
Inspiring women and girls in STEM at Peebles High School
Peebles High School in the Scottish Borders has been running the Young STEM Leader Programme (YSLP) for the last two years. This year, an inspiring group of Young STEM Leaders set out to tackle gender stereotypes in STEM in their school.
Radioactivity in schools – some misconceptions
Not everyone who uses radioactive sources in schools will have a physics background and some who do may still harbour misconceptions. Here are some that
we have come across.
Just a ‘heads-up’ – we will advise on H&S in all areas of schools – though our speciality is in Science and Technology – we will, over the next few months be expanding our advice on the website to include Art departments as well.
The free, open-source Tracker software package, written by Doug Brown of Cabrillo College, has been a favourite of ours at SSERC for over a decade. Tracker is many-faceted, but at its core is the ability to analyse video and still images. Students working at home could perform meaningful practical work using the application.
Studying animal cells at BGE using liver cells
In this time of COVID-19, SSERC has received several enquiries from teachers and school technicians about the safety and desirability of carrying out cheek cell sampling for microscope work. While this is a safe activity,, it does require that learners to adhere strictly to the guidance. As an alternative, here we set out a protocol using fresh liver as a readily available and cheap source of animal cells suitable for microscopic examination by learners.
Determining the iodine value without Wijs
For some years now there has been an activity on the SSERC website about the synthesis and testing of biodiesel. The test for unsaturation traditionally uses Wijs solution (alkaline iodine monochloride). This is expensive to buy and hazardous to make: here we offer a simple, quicker, safer method.
SSERC professional learning courses
Ann update on our professional learning operations. Face-to-face courses will take place with appropriate COVID processes and procedures in place,
including social distancing. (The programme is, of course, subject to change, depending on the situation with the pandemic).
The STEM Ambassador Programme in Scotland
STEM Ambassadors are volunteers from a wide range of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) related jobs and disciplines across the UK. They offer their time and enthusiasm to help bring STEM subjects to life and demonstrate the value of them in life and careers. SSERC manages the STEM
Ambassador Programme in Scotland on behalf of STEM Learning.
IOP Teacher Award 2020 – Dr Catherine Dunn
All at SSERC are delighted to learn that our colleague Catherine is a winner of the Institute of Physics Teacher of Physics Award 2020.
Treehouse is an online education platform full of interactive, inspirational and confidence boosting modules to support schools, their teachers, and pupils to be the best version of themselves.
Jayne’s experience as winner of ENTHUSE Award, Excellence in STEM Teaching (Secondary)
A Young STEM Leader case study
A case study of Turnbull High School in Bishopbriggs, East Dunbartonshire which has been delivering the Young STEM Leader Programme (YSLP) for the last two years.
Coronavirus and the cleaning of equipment
An update on needs and methods for the cleaning of laboratory equipment during the pandemic.
Update of chemistry risk assessments
All the chemistry risk-assessments have recently been updated.
Sealed radioactive source disposal
With many councils adopting a ‘zero waste to landfill policy’, what should a school do if it wishes to dispose of a source?
How SSERC has dealt with the pandemic and what we have been doing to try to help.
The STEM Ambassadors programme
Did you know that there are thousands of volunteers across Scotland ready to help bring STEM subjects to life?
Simple Physics practical work that can be done at home – but is no less thought-provoking than anything carried out in a fully kitted-out laboratory.
Professional Learning at SSERC
Life has changed for everyone in this time of COVID-19 and so it is that life at SSERC has changed too. The SSERC team (mostly working from home) have been busy reconfiguring courses so that they can be delivered online via ZOOM, or Adobe Connect, as ‘SSERC_meets’, or through self-study components, or face-to-face at SSERC where social distancing guidelines permit. the programme for our courses can be found here
SSERC professional Learning Programme
Did you do any cooking or baking today? Did you drive a car, pay for something at the shops or take a selfie? How about painting your nails, watching TV or lighting a candle? STEM is all around us – and sometimes we don’t even realise it.
It is likely that enhanced hygiene measures will be with us for some time to come. Your employer will have risk-assessed your school situation and put in place a policy. Health and safety law says that you must follow your employer’s guidance and nothing in the following article should lead you to think, “I don’t need to do that because it’s not part of SSERC’s guidance.” Rather, what we’re saying is that if your employer tells you to do X, this is how you might comply in a practical setting.
The COVID-19 situation has brought the issue of carrying out practical work in and around the home to the fore. It is important that this be done safely – we offer some guidance.
Many schools have, sensibly enough, bulk bought hand sanitisers to save money. It is important to remember though that any alcohol-based ones are flammable liquids and need to be stored as such.
In the latter part of 2019, SSERC tried out what for the organisation was a new type of professional learning – the self-study course. While we remain committed to face-to-face learning this approach does have its benefits.
Resistance – it’s all in the bag
Velostat™ or (Linqstat™) is a carbon-loaded polyethylene manufactured by 3m™. This material is often used in the form of a small bag 0.1 mm thick to protect static sensitive semiconductor components. In this article, we show how it can be used to investigate resitance.
SSERC professional learning courses
Our courses range from twilight events, day-courses through to residential meetings. Our curriculum coverage spans both primary and secondary sectors and we offer events for teachers, newly qualified teachers and technicians. Many of our events receive funding from the ENTHUSE Bursary scheme or the Scottish Government.
This is a list of courses due to start in September 2020. At the time of publication (April 2020) we are assuming that things will be back close enough to normal to allow them to go ahead as planned. But do check the website nearer the time.
Young STEM Leader programme – FAQ
After the introduction to this exciting programme in the last issue, we answer some of your questions.
Dissection of animal materials in school
We receive enquiries about animal material dissection on a regular basis from both teachers and technicians. Many of these simply ask, ‘What are we allowed to do?’
After having our attention drawn to a striking example of what not to do with a laser pointer, here is a brief summary of SSERC’s guidance on the use of lasers
in schools
Another striking example of what not to do. This time involving eating and drinking . . . and mercury!
The HSE has recently updated its guidance for the use of 3D printers. We offer guidance about how this impacts on their use in schools and colleges.
Impulse experiments using Electrolycra
This is an inexpensive, simple method of getting a force/time graph and comparing impulse with change in momentum.
End-product inhibition of the enzyme phosphatase – revisited
The SQA Course Specifications for Higher Biology and Higher Human Biology each suggest, as a context for the study of metabolic pathways, a learning activity where students might, “Carry out experiments based on end-product inhibition using phosphatase and phenolphthalein phosphate”.
Free STEM teaching resources from the University of Edinburgh
The School of GeoSciences, in collaboration with the Open Educational Resources (OER) Service, at the University of Edinburgh have released a series of free STEM teaching resources for school teachers and educators. The resources, which can be downloaded free of charge from TES Resources, are accompanied by Curriculum for Excellence learning objectives and outcomes, and are designed to be easily re-used and adapted for different classroom scenarios and curriculum levels.
SSERC professional learning courses
Our professional development courses range from twilight events, day-courses through to residential meetings lasting up to 6 days in total. Our curriculum coverage spans both primary and secondary sectors and we offer events for teachers as part of their career long professional learning, newly qualified teachers and technicians. Many of our events receive funding from the ENTHUSE Bursary scheme or the Scottish Government.
2020: year of the Young STEM Leader
“2020 will be the year of the young STEM Leader” Alastair MacGregor, Chief Executive of SSERC
Virtual Reality in the School of Education at University of Glasgow
When we wrote in Bulletin 260 on the control measures for using virtual reality in the classroom, we admitted that we did not have much experience of the technology ourselves and wondered if our safety advice was draconian. Since then, we have worked with Gabriella Rodolico of Glasgow University who used our guidance and found it to be entirely appropriate. We thought that Gabriella’s findings on the pedagogical aspects of VR would be of interest to many teachers of STEM subjects.
Safety in Microbiology Level 3 training
Safety in Microbiology – A Code of Practice for Scottish Schools and Colleges (SSERC 2018), the most recent edition of which was issued to schools in December 2018, contains guidance on the safe handling of micro-organisms for local authority and SSERC member schools and colleges. In most cases, local authority, or independent school/college, employers have adopted the Code of Practice to meet the requirements of the COSHH Regulations and of other related health and safety legislation.
‘What is the maximum capacitance allowable for a capacitor that will be used by students?’ A query like this one was emailed to our helpline and, as is often the way of these questions, there turned out to be more to it than initially seemed to be the case.
A new edition of Safeguards in the School Laboratory
At its Annual Conference in Reading, ASE launched the 12th edition of Safeguards in the School Laboratory. This familiar title was written by members of the ASE’s Health & Safety Group and is intended for all those involved in 11-19 science education. It will be particularly useful for newly qualified and trainee teachers, new technicians and for those seeking promotion to, or newly-appointed as, heads of department, senior technicians, etc. Having said that, one experienced former head of department, who joined the Group shortly before the revision started, was astonished at how much he hadn’t known!
Graphing and statistical analysis with R
Graphing is a really important skill in the sciences. Graphs provide an excellent way to organise data but, more importantly, such visual aids can be really useful when it comes to interpreting data and looking for patterns. One relatively easy way to get professional-looking graphs is through using the soft ware package known as R.
Using model houses to investigate the effect of different types of house insulation
Model houses are used to investigate which type of insulation has the most effect on the ambient temperature of the house. Wooden model houses for this investigation are now difficult to source from science equipment suppliers. Here we show how model houses can be made from old cardboard boxes. The houses are simple to make and robust.
The Young STEM Leader (YSL) Programme: Inspiring and developing young people through STEM
Excitement, interest and positivity around the YSL Programme continues to grow across Scotland.
Photosynthesis using seaweed – opportunities for quantitative studies
In a previous article we suggested that seaweeds might offer opportunities for studying a range of parameters in relation to the rate of photosynthesis. We described how one might measure absorbance changes in hydrogencarbonate indicator solutions in the presence of knotted wrack (Ascophyllum nodosum) as a measure of photosynthesis activity. We have described other uses of this technique on previous occasions. We describe here an updated version of our previous work and offer suggestions for how the technique might be extended to offer opportunities for quantitative studies.
SSERC professional learning courses
Our professional development courses range from twilight events, day-courses through to residential meetings lasting up to 6 days in total. Our curriculum
coverage spans both primary and secondary sectors and we offer events for teachers as part of their career long professional learning, newly qualified teachers
and technicians. Many of our events receive funding from the ENTHUSE Bursary scheme or the Scottish Government.
The green, green chemistry of home
The concept of ‘green chemistry’ appeared on the scene in the mid to late 1990s. The name certainly gives an indication but it is an approach to chemistry which aims to minimise the use and generation of hazardous substances. Green chemistry focuses on the environmental impact of chemistry, including technological approaches to preventing pollution and reducing consumption of nonrenewable resources.
We all know that seawater is salty. We also know that this is due, in the main, to the presence of sodium chloride. (To be more precise, there is not actual sodium chloride present, merely sodium ions and chloride ions along with a host of other anions and cations in smaller quantities but it is convenient to talk in terms of sodium chloride). There are also chloride ions in far smaller concentrations in many ‘fresh’ water sources. A glance at the compositions of mineral waters will show chloride as a significant component.
Permanganate oxidation of alcohols
The oxidation of alcohols is commonly carried out on a test-tube (or spotting tile) scale to demonstrate to pupils the different properties of primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols.
Leading for Excellence in STEM
Graham Donaldson, in his review of teacher education in Scotland, noted that international evidence ‘…suggests, perhaps unsurprisingly, that the foundations of successful education lie in the quality of teachers and their leadership. High quality people achieve high quality outcomes for children.’
An update on health and safety regarding aged protactinium generators.
β-galactosidase: Competitive inhibition
In the past few years the Biology Team at SSERC have published details of several enzyme assays which could be used to support Higher Biology and Higher Human Biology; such enzyme systems include phosphatase, catalase, and β-glucosidase.
ENTHUSE Celebration Awards
SSERC was delighted to host the Scottish ENTHUSE Celebration Awards 2019 at the Engine Shed in Stirling on 14th May 2019. These awards celebrated excellence in STEM education in Primary & Secondary schools, in school leadership and for technicians and support staff . The event allowed SSERC to commend the commitment of the winners to professional learning and the impact that it has had on them, their pupils and their school.
Enzyme activities for BGE
The Biology Team at SSERC has decided to have another look at some activities which we think might be suitable for the study of enzymes at BGE, or National 4 Biology, where learners are required to take part in practical activities which illustrate the, “…properties of enzymes and their use in industries’’.
Digital skills at SSERC
We are delighted to report that, with support from the government, we are able to deliver digital skills training across both primary and secondary sectors. A new Digital Skills Education Officer is in post and with the support of the Digital Team in Education Scotland, we have been able to offer a range of digital skills courses.
SSERC professional learning courses
Our professional development courses range from twilight events, day-courses through to residential meetings lasting up to 6 days in total. Our curriculum coverage spans both primary and secondary sectors and we offer events for teachers as part of their career long professional learning, newly qualified teachers and technicians. Many of our events receive funding from the ENTHUSE Bursary scheme or the Scottish Government.
The Young STEM Leader (YSL) Programme: Inspiring and developing young people through STEM
A new Scottish programme which will give children and young people the chance to develop their personal skills through Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is being piloted this month (June).
Out-of-balance Wheatstone Bridge
This is another article that might help you guide your students towards a successful Higher Investigation. The Wheatstone Bridge is not mentioned in the Higher Physics Course Specification. The potential divider is included, and the Wheatstone Bridge can be thought of as an application using two potential dividers. Investigating the voltage across the bridge when it is out of balance is straightforward and, if the correct setup is used, gives good results.
SSERC in Partnership with The Scottish Childminding Association
At SSERC we pride ourselves on providing excellent STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) focused Career Long Professional Learning (CLPL) opportunities for educators across Scotland.
TIG Rods – how to use thoriated TIG welding rods safely and effectively in radioactivity experiments.
Welding fumes – a change in the law on welding that can affect schools
Sodium in water incident – and incident in a school which deserves sharing
Resistance spot welding
Resistance spot welding, usually referred to as spot welding, is a process that is widely used for joining thin sheet metal. This type of welding is commonly used in technology departments due to its fairly straight forward use and quick results. However, there are some tricky issues in the initial setting up of the spot welding equipment and as a result we have put together this quick and handy guide.
Charging a capacitor
With many schools electing to do what we might call “core” experiments for their Higher Assignments, we thought it would be worth revisiting some of these to give advice on equipment and component values. We are aiming to help teachers and technicians here – beware of passing this material unedited to students. You could be giving them too much information. It is not designed to be a “second source”. We have an evolving document on the Higher Physics area of our website that features a number of what we consider to be suitable experiments. This article showcases one example – charging a capacitor.
Agriculture, food and food security: why it is an important topic for students
We were very fortunate in having Professor Tim Benton as the Keynote Speaker at the SSERC Annual Conference in November 2018. Tim is Dean of Strategic Research Initiatives at the University of Leeds and Distinguished Visiting Fellow at Chatham House. From 2011-2016, Tim was the UK Champion for Global Food Security, acting as ambassador and spokesperson for matters to do with food and food security, and coordinating work across this area between research councils and government departments. We were fortunate that Tim gave us permission to record his presentation and we were delighted when he also agreed that we could make it more widely available through the SSERC YouTube channel. We hope that you and your students enjoy the video despite some of the predictions being ‘scary’! Click here to view the video.
The Scottish Universities Science School (SUSS)
Many of you reading this brief article may have started your association with SSERC through attendance at a SUSS event. Without doubt, SUSS is, for the SSERC team, the most complex and challenging event in our calendar. We thought it might be interesting to look back at what has been achieved over the years.
SSERC professional learning courses
Our professional development courses range from twilight events, day-courses through to residential meetings lasting up to 6 days in total. Our curriculum coverage spans both primary and secondary sectors and we offer events for teachers as part of their career long professional learning, newly qualified teachers and technicians. Many of our events receive funding from the ENTHUSE awards scheme or the Scottish Government.
Voltage values for safe circuits
We are now issuing the following advice on voltage levels for circuit building in schools:
- Pupils and students should carry out such work at no more than 30 V, irrespective of whether ac or dc is used.
- If there is a chance of touching an uninsulated conductor with wet skin, or of touching an uninsulated wet conductor, the limit becomes 15 V.
Locust Allergy
Allergy to locusts has been reported as an occupational allergy found in research staff working with repeated exposure to large breeding colonies of locusts. This level of exposure is much less likely in schools and colleges but an awareness of the possibility is still important.
Involving students in safety
It is an explicit requirement in Advanced Higher projects that learners produce their own risk assessments but in this article we discuss the advantages of getting them involved in the process at a younger age.
The Heat is on
One of the core activities in chemistry at all levels is heating substances. This is usually done with little fuss and few accidents. The presence of naked flames and hot objects or substances is, however, a significant hazard so a review of methods and techniques for heating chemicals seems timely.
Catalase activity in immobilised yeast – effect of inhibitors
Several schools have indicated to us that they are using catalase activity in immobilised yeast as the basis for student investigations at both National 5 and Higher. Teachers and technicians tell us that the simplicity of the experimental system, the low costs involved and the inherent scope for changing a number of variables (principally substrate concentration, temperature and pH) all allow for flexibility.
Proto-Pic board for the BBC micro:bit
In Bulletin 262, we suggested that you could use BBC micro:bits as an aid to teaching potential dividers and switching circuits. We directed you to some programs we had written and showed how you could wire up “choc block” connectors to use the devices with electronic components such as LDRs and LEDs. We had some very interesting, rather contradictory feedback. Some teachers reported that their students loved wiring up the block connectors. Others found the approach too fiddly. If you fall into the latter camp, you may be interested in the Proto-Pic board and accessories.
ASE Annual Conference 2019
Wednesday 9 January – Saturday 12 January at the University of Birmingham. Europe’s Largest Science Education Conference.
SSERC website explained
Most of you will have been aware of the transfer of content that took place over the summer. We are now at a position where most of what was on the old site is now on the new one so this seems like an apposite time for some brief guidance.
SSERC professional learning courses
Our professional development courses range from twilight events, day-courses through to residential meetings lasting up to 6 days in total. Our curriculum coverage spans both primary and secondary sectors and we offer events for teachers as part of their career long professional learning, newly qualified teachers and technicians. Many of our events receive funding from the ENTHUSE awards scheme or the Scottish Government.
Health & Safety
This section contains articles on:
Working safely with micro-organisms in Laboratory Science: Practical Skills (National 5)
‘Gauzegate’ – A few weeks ago it was discovered that a few samples of ceramic-centred Bunsen gauzes from two suppliers had come back with a positive test for a very low level of contamination with asbestos. HSE issued advice on what to do, mirrored by ourselves and CLEAPSS.
Changes to Radioactivity Legislation
Easter Bush Science Outreach Centre
Jayne Quoiani, Science Outreach Centre Officer, tells us about a new facility available to schools in Scotland.
BeeSpi V
The BeeSpi V (Figure 1) is a relatively inexpensive, self contained light gate and time-speed unit made by the NaRiKa Corporation of Japan. Usually when we review a device like this our biggest challenge would be to test the accuracy of the timer. Here, we had an additional issue. How do you actually pronounce BeeSpi V? We decided on “Bee Spy Vee”, though some asked whether the final letter was a V or a nu.
Carbon dioxide and global warming
We have but one planet, and both the physical and economic processes that are driving climate change have enormous inertia. If a big ocean liner were steaming into dense fog in polar seas, only a fool would maintain full speed on the basis that the technicians were still discussing the distance to the first big iceberg.
SSERC professional learning courses
Our professional development courses range from twilight events, day-courses through to residential meetings lasting up to 6 days in total. Our curriculum coverage spans both primary and secondary sectors and we offer events for teachers as part of their career long professional learning, newly qualified teachers and technicians. Many of our events receive funding from the ENTHUSE awards scheme or the Scottish Government.
Catalase activity in immobilised yeast – an update
In 2017 SSERC was approached by SQA to produce two resource packs in support of National 5 Biology investigations. We have recently published details of these resource packs and copies can be downloaded from the SSERC website.
Compressors and the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations
“Our CDT department has a compressor. I’ve heard that the science department has to have its pressure systems tested every year. Is it the same with compressors?” This enquiry was recently emailed to SSERC following our article on the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR) that we published in Bulletin 259. We reckoned that the sender would not be alone in wanting to know the answer.
SEFARI: Science education resources
The SSERC Biology Team have been collaborating with several scientists working within the new collective of Scottish Research Institutes, known as SEFARI (Scottish Environment Food and Agriculture Research Institutes) to help develop and promote their excellent educational resources available to support the delivery of the biology curriculum.
Photosynthesis using seaweed – opportunities for investigative work in Environmental Science?
Within SSERC we continue to explore the use of hydrogencarbonate indicator as a convenient experimental system for demonstrating both photosynthesis and respiration in plants and we have recently extended our range of published protocols to include materials in support of the SQA assignment for revised National 5 Biology.
Chrome dreams
For the last two years, the physics team at SSERC have investigated apps for Android and IOS that enable experimental work to be carried out with mobile devices. When we heard that a number of schools had chosen to issue Chromebooks to students, we took a virtual wander to the Chrome Web Store to see what was available there.
It’s a gas, gas, gas
There is much excellent chemistry that can be done in class using gases but unfortunately, less is done than might be the case due to the difficulty of getting a supply of gases to experiment with.
SSERC professional development courses
Our professional development courses range from twilight events, day-courses through to residential meetings lasting up to 6 days in total. Our curriculum coverage spans both primary and secondary sectors and we offer events for teachers as part of their career long professional learning, newly qualified teachers and technicians. Many of our events receive funding from the ENTHUSE awards scheme or the Scottish Government.
Leak testing – myth versus actuality
“I’m never going to use electricity in my department because there’s a legal requirement that portable appliances need to be tested.” If you had a pound for every time you heard somebody say that, you would not have any extra money at all. Nobody thinks that way, at least where electricity is concerned.
Copper and Le Chatelier
There is a well-known experiment that is used to great effect to show the effect of heat on the position of an equilibrium. The solution used contains cobalt chloride and hydrochloric acid resulting in an equilibrium between cobalt ions that have either pink aqueous or blue chloride ligands.
Liberate your school’s micro:bits
In the spring of 2016, Scottish schools were given one BBC micro:bit programmable device for every S1 pupil. The intention was to encourage young people to learn to code. There was an article about the giveaway in SSERC Bulletin 255 [1]. Since then, some schools have given out the micro:bits to pupils, but when we ask teachers what happened to them in their schools, a common reply is, “They’re all in a box in the computing department.”
SSERC professional development courses
An update on the courses SSERC is offering over the next few months.
Synthetic Biology: learning by playing cards
Dr. Liz Fletcher and her colleagues at the University of Edinburgh’s Centre for Synthetic and Systems Biology (SynthSys) have developed a useful resource for students of National 5 and Higher Biology.
Manual screwcutting – part 2
Following from our previous article [Bulletin 261] on manual screwcutting, where we looked at the process of producing internal threads, our intention was to supplement this with a look at how external threads are created. So let’s have a look at the tools and techniques that will get you started.
Scottish success at STEM Inspiration Awards
The STEM Inspiration Awards celebrate individuals and organisations working to inspire young people in STEM subjects.
Career speed-dating success using STEM Ambassadors
Organised jointly by the Science and Technology department and the Mathematics department, a total of 29 visitors from a diverse range of career and qualification backgrounds such as engineering, pharmacy, medicine, web design, robotics, finance, nursing and management were quizzed on their careers in five minute slots by groups of S4 pupils.
Pressure systems – again
Sometimes it feels like it wouldn’t be a proper SSERC Bulletin without an article on the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR). Our recent article in Bulletin 259 and the follow-up advice in 261 caused a stooshie in some quarters. Indeed, there were a small number of people who felt that SSERC was insisting on examiners having to meet higher standards than those required by the Health and Safety Executive.
Whoosh bottle alert
Our colleagues at CLEAPSS reported an incident with this demonstration in the South West of England last year with a whoosh bottle containing methanol.
Time to revisit the Schools Chips?
Using microchips for physics experiments and investigations
DIY molecular models
A series of activities using molecular models and instructions on how to carry these out with DIY versions made from plasticine or sweeties.
Wizard Genes re-visited
An update of the SSERC “Wizard Genes” experiment. With the general trend in replacing synthetic food dyes with more natural alternatives that don’t work, we have been looking for alternatives.
National 5 Biology assignment packs
2 Resource Packs, which could be used to support teachers and students in the implementation of the new National 5 Assignments. The two exemplars are: ‘Fertiliser and the growth of algae’ and ‘Limiting factors in photosynthesis’.
Manual screwcutting: the ins and outs
To help with the process of screwcutting threads on or into metal while working on practical metalwork coursework, we have put together this quick “one stop shop” guide. It contains need to know information on
cutting internal threads using taps.
Health and Safety
Back with the PSSR – revisiting the pressure regulations
An update on the testing of pressure equipment.
Soldering on
A summary of our advice on safe soldering
That uncertain feeling
Considering the behaviour of classical waves can give us insight into phenomena usually considered to be quantum in nature. Here we use apps running on tablets to investigate classical uncertainty, then relate our findings to quantum physics.
Demonstration corner
An interesting and colourful autocatalytic reaction.
The Rolls-Royce Science Prize
An update on the Rolls Royce Science Prize and the successes of attendees on SSERC courses.
STEM Ambassadors
An introduction and guide to the STEM ambassadors scheme
SSERC professional development courses
An update on upcoming CLPL courses at SSERC over the next few months.
No escape from (Virtual) Reality
In virtual reality (VR), a computer is used to recreate a 3D environment that a user can interact with. At present, this is usually done with a special headset. Some have built-in screens, others, such as Google Cardboard, are just holders for smartphones. Some teachers are beginning to use the technology in lessons. Are there any safety issues that we should consider?
Health and Safety
Have a ripping time
An update on changes in working practices the position of the rip fence whilst rip cutting.
Lathe speeds and Tool Angles
Machining safely and correctly on the centre lathe commands a high degree of importance and the machine should have its speed set appropriately and tools at the correct angles. This article provides helpful guidance on working safely and successfully.
Potential with a difference
In this article, we aim to show how it is possible to make and investigate electrochemistry on a small scale using simple and cheap half cells made from ‘tic-tac’ boxes. (Pupils can readily be persuaded to eat the contents!).
Life that glows
It has been about five years since we looked at the topic of bioluminescence [1] in this Bulletin. Since that time there have been some revisions to the documentation relating to both Higher Biology and Higher Human Biology qualifications [2, 3] but in both subjects one of the suggested learning activities continues to be ‘Experiments on ATP dependent reactions, e.g. luciferase, luminescent reactions’.
SSERC professional development courses
An update on the courses SSERC is offering over the next few months.
Stem Insight
The STEM Insight programme looks to inspire secondary teachers of STEM subjects and FE professionals to enrich their knowledge of STEM industry so they can better support their students.
When every drop counts
The Biology Team in SSERC has recently published a number of experimental ideas involving “immobilised” beads of enzymes, yeast, algae etc.
Scotland, Singapore and SSERC
The new SSERC Technology team arrives.
Health and Safety
C. elegans – safety note
C. elegans is widely used as model organism for helminthic parasites. The most common human helminth infection in the UK is threadworms or pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis). C. elegans therefore is a useful model organism for project work. Here is an update on safety considerations.
Battery Safety
Pupils and students must, of course, never build circuits that run directly from mains electricity. Batteries make
a safe, effective substitute, provided you follow some simple advice.
Eyelash mites – safety note
Sampling Demodex in schools is not recommended. The size, density and location of mites make it difficult to ensure that a sample will contain mites. In addition students may fi nd it difficult to locate individual mites under the microscope. Also individuals with skin conditions about which they may be sensitive are more likely to produce samples with mites..
Complying with Pressure Regulations in school science departments
School science departments are likely to own apparatus covered by the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR).
Devices covered by this legislation that may be used in schools include: Model steam engines (e.g. Mamod, Wilesco), Pressure cookers and Autoclaves (see particular issues with thermostatically controlled autoclaves). This article tells you what you need to do to comply with the legislation.
Micro:bit by bit
In August 2016, on the back of the BBC’s gift of a BBC micro:bit to schools for every S1 student, every Design and Technology department in Scotland was sent a Kitronik Inventor’s Kit for the BBC micro:bit courtesy of SSERC. This kit is a great way to get started with programming and hardware interaction. This Inventor’s Kit contains everything needed to complete 10 experiments including using LEDs, motors, LDRs and capacitors.
“Is it true that Cabomba has been banned from schools?”
Until recently SSERC recommended the use of Cabomba caroliniana for use in simple photosynthesis experiments. However, in 2016 Cabomba, along with various other plant species, was placed on the EU list of invasive alien species. As current stocks are used up it will become increasingly difficult to source Cabomba and ultimately it will be an offence to keep, or supply it.
However, at SSERC we have identified another aquarium oxygenator, also non-native which, to date, is still available to buy. Egeria najas performs just as well as Cabomba in these simple classroom photosynthesis experiments.
SSERC professional development courses & New Senior Technician
An update on the courses SSERC is offering over the next few months. Also, Anja Armstrong joins SSERC as Senior Technician.
How smart is your cart?
An introduction to one of the next generation of dynamics cards for use in physics: the Smart Cart from Pasco
Hydrogen peroxide and immobilised yeast
This article offers a thought-provoking and, as we hope to show here, a fun approach to measuring catalase levels in yeast.
Duncan Lamb and Chris Kerr
The new SSERC Technology team arrives.
Health and Safety
Trouble in store
In light of the whole DNPH farrago, a look at the safe storage and monitoring of chemicals in schools.
The use of caffeine on human subjects
A warning about using caffeine on human subjects in biology investigations.
Counting cells using a haemocytometer
An introduction to the disposable plastic C-Chip™ haemocytometer and how to use this for counting cells under a microscope.
Demonstration corner – Golden Rain
This is a beautiful demonstration that is a lovely introduction to discussions about precipitation and solubility. Warm solutions of potqassium iodide and lead nitrate are mixed. As they cool crystals of lead iodide appear and sparkle beautifully if a strong light is shone on the solution as they settle to the bottom.
Let’s get ready to Crumble
The Crumble controller is cheap, easy-to-use and an ideal way to introduce electronic control and circuits to BGE classes. After starting out with a Crumble Controller, all you require is the addition of a battery power source, a micro USB cable from the PC, a number of croc leads and sparkle LEDs and you are ready to begin.
Technology Book Reviews
Reviews of two new books relating to the Raspberry Pi – Adventures in Raspberry Pi by Carrie Anne Philbin and Make: A Raspberry Pi Controlled Robot (3rd Edition) by Wolfram Donat
New STEM website
In December 2015, the National Science Learning Network and National STEM Centre teamed up and created a new website: www.stem.org.uk.
From fireflies to poetry
One of the activities which SSERC offers to schools and colleges is a demonstration lecture entitled ‘From Sellotape® to Fireflies: things that glow in the dark!’.
Health and Safety
Health and Safety update
Updates on:
Lead screws
Electrical safety of mains adaptors
Radiation – disposal of sources
Explosions in schools
Demonstrating Frustrated Total Internal Reflection
A good practical activity for Advanced Higher as FTIR has strong similarities to quantum tunnelling.
Treat ’em to Tchaikovsky
A fun take on a clock reaction. As well as the interesting (and quite challenging) chemistry involved, this version sets the additional challenge of trying to get flasks to change colour at exact points during a piece of music.
Quantifying respiration rate using resazurin
Within the biology curriculum, at National 5 and Higher, it is suggested that learners might use the colour changes of resazurin dye as a measure of respiration rate, or dehydrogenase activity, in yeast.
In this article we look at some approaches to carrying out this experiment.
Evidence Based Education
Decision making in education should be based on sound research evidence and should be the concern of every teacher. This new publication written by Jim Stafford describes the main methods for collecting evidence on which to base decisions.
Go on tweet, it’s good for you!
Using Twitter as a departmental information tool can offer lots of benefits to Technology teachers, whole departments and their pupils. Here we analyse five of those benefits and how they can help you at school.
Health and Safety
Auditing your radioactive sources
In Bulletin 255, we reminded users of radioactive materials in schools of the administrative procedures they should be carrying out in order to work safely and comply with the law. In this issue, we look at the sorts of sources that are permitted for use in schools.
Storage of chemicals in schools
A guide to some of the legislation covering the safe storage of chemicals in schools and some of the issues that we are coming across.
For your eyes only
One of the most frequent requests for guidance that we receive is for information on protective eyewear. Here we breakdown the information from BS 4163:2014 to help you make the right choice in the workshop.
Air weapons in schools
A forthcoming change in the law will affect any school whose physics department owns an air rifle. Section 2 of the Air Weapon and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2015, which comes into effect on December 31st 2016, makes it an offence for a person to use, possess, purchase or acquire an air weapon without holding a certificate.
Separation and Isolation of Amino Acids
Paper chromatography of amino acids is one of the practical learning activities suggested in Higher Biology. This article gives details of a suitable experimental protocol for carrying out the procedure. It is also available for download from the SSERC website and has been adapted from one produced by Dart Publishing in 1996. Please read the accompanying health and safety guidelines prior to starting this procedure.
The Future is here and it is BBC Micro:bit
An introductio to the BBC Micro:bit microcomputer that is being given out to all S1 students across the country as part of a UK wide initiative to raise the profile of coding in schools.
SSERC Local Authority equipment
As was the case in 2015, SSERC has been able to source pieces of science and technology equipment which we will give to local authorities on a permanent loan basis. Further details of the various items are given in the articles that follow.
Magical Mystrica Tour
To go along with the upgrading of the provision of Mystrica Colorimeters in Local Authorities, this article gives some information about the use of the new Mystrics Mark II and how to use it for automated colorimetry in connection with PCs and mobile devices.
A Particle Detector for you to Borrow
SSERC has been given a new piece of apparatus to lend to schools. We think you and your students are going to like it. It is a particle detector, capable of detecting alpha, beta and gamma radiation and other types such as muons.
Band Saw Buddy
SSERC has purchased an Axminster Tools Band Saw Buddy for every Technical Education department in Scotland. The tool is extremely well manufactured here in the UK and handy to have attached to the band saw whilst working in a school work shop.
Health and Safety
Radiation protection – how is your record-keeping?
For reason s that are not entirely clear, we have had a flurry of requests for approval to buy new items. This is probably a good time to remind you of what you should be doing if you own sources, with particular regard to checking, testing and record-keeping. Here is a summary.
Lab and Technical coats – a brief guide
Counting cells using a haemocytometer
An introduction to the disposable plastic C-Chip™ haemocytometer and how to use this for counting cells under a microscope.
Demonstration corner – Golden Rain
This is a beautiful demonstration that is a lovely introduction to discussions about precipitation and solubility. Warm solutions of potqassium iodide and lead nitrate are mixed. As they cool crystals of lead iodide appear and sparkle beautifully if a strong light is shone on the solution as they settle to the bottom.
Let’s get ready to Crumble
The Crumble controller is cheap, easy-to-use and an ideal way to introduce electronic control and circuits to BGE classes. After starting out with a Crumble Controller, all you require is the addition of a battery power source, a micro USB cable from the PC, a number of croc leads and sparkle LEDs and you are ready to begin.
Technology Book Reviews
Reviews of two new books relating to the Raspberry Pi – Adventures in Raspberry Pi by Carrie Anne Philbin and Make: A Raspberry Pi Controlled Robot (3rd Edition) by Wolfram Donat
New STEM website
In December 2015, the National Science Learning Network and National STEM Centre teamed up and created a new website: www.stem.org.uk.
From fireflies to poetry
One of the activities which SSERC offers to schools and colleges is a demonstration lecture entitled ‘From Sellotape® to Fireflies: things that glow in the dark!’.
Health and Safety
Health and Safety update
Updates on:
Lead screws
Electrical safety of mains adaptors
Radiation – disposal of sources
Explosions in schools
50 Years of SSERC – The development of SSERC ove the first 50 years. And an appreciation of the late Allen Cochrane, erstwhile chemist at SSERC.
Small is beautiful – An article that gives an introduction to various microscale techniques that can be used in the chemistry laboratory and a showcase of some of the resources available in the microscale section of the Chemistry area of the website.
Mulling over Muller-Lyer – An approach to using the Muller-Lyer illusion as the basis for an investigation into perception for Higher Human Biology
Experimental Data – Showcasing the presence and possible uses of some data sets now available on the SSERC website through the resources section for Higher Biology or Higher Human Biology.
Technology Books – Reviews of: Getting Started with Processing by Casey Reas & Ben Fry and Getting Started with Arduino (3rd Edition), by Massimo Banzi & Michael Shiloh.
Countdown to Physics Safety – A look at what we believe are the top three issues in school
physics health and safety: High Tension Power Supplies, Laser Pointers and Radioluminescent Dials.
There is also an update on Face masks
Ionising Radiation Web Page – An introduction and guide to the recently revamped Ionising Radiation section of the Physics Health & Safety area of the website.
Free Fritzing! – An introduction to some free software which allows electronics circuits to be graphically drawn and documented, then used throughout Engineering Science courses in your department.
Build yourself a robotic arm – A guide to a self-assembly Robotic Arm with USB Interface allows your pupils to progress through a reasonably well instructed assembly process, allowing individuals or teams of pupils to achieve the satisfaction of completing the project with whatever levels of teacher input deemed necessary.
Demonstration Corner – How to carry out the spectacular chip-pan fire demonstration safely in the classroom.
Livewire & Control Studio 2 – Free electrical circuit simulation software for your Technical Education department from SSERC.
We have an app! – Using funding from SQA, SSERC has been working with a software developer to create a simple app to help students understand average speed. SSERC Speed Camera works like a real speed camera. It captures two successive images of a moving object. If we know the time between each image and the distance travelled in that time, the average speed can be found.
Cyanotypes and sunscreens – How to use the old iron-based cyanotype photographic process as a way to determine uv exposure and investigate sunscreens.
Give your 3D printer the jolly torture test – How to use your new 3D printer to make a fantastic little scale model boat, designed by Creative-Tools.com to be quickly produced and economical with the amount of material used.
Kinetic studies with beta-glucosidase – In this article we explore the merits of β-glucosidase for enzyme kinetics studies. The enzyme is found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems and has been shown to play important roles in a variety of biochemical processes.
Technology Books – Reviews of: Getting Started with Processing by Casey Reas & Ben Fry and Getting Started with Arduino (3rd Edition), by Massimo Banzi & Michael Shiloh.
Health & Safety update – Thermit, Rubber tubing, the hazards of YouTube and Torula food yeast.
Equipment for Local Authorities
Once again, SSERC has been able to source 3 substantial pieces of scientific equipment to give out to local authorities on a permanent loan, from where you will be able to borrow them for your schools
Interfacing with the Arduino Uno (part 2)
Following on from the article in Bulletin 249 (interfacing with the Arduino Uno platform), here is the promised follow-up article on interfacing.
Fun with Phosphatase
A straightforward procedure using the phosphatase to investigate enzyme kinetics in general and product inhibition in particular.
What’s New?
News of what is happening here at SSERC
Using Spectral Workbench
In a follow up to last issue’s article on how to construct a simple smartphone spectroscope, this article shows a straightforward way to analyse those pictures to get usable spectra.
Health & Safety
RPA and Risk Assessments
A new Radiation Protection Advisor for Scotland and some updated Risk Assessments for Design and Technology.
Violet laser diode
In Bulletin 229 we rejoiced that at last an inexpensive Class 2 green laser diode module (LDM) was available. Now we have at last been able to buy a violet laser diode module (405 nm). As with the green unit, our violet LDM has automatic power control and comes from the same reputable company, Roithner Lasertechnik in Vienna.
Renewables and Higher Physics – the Bananarama Conjecture
A look at the new Researching Physics Unit exemplar on renewables
Demonstration corner – Flame Colours’
A striking demonstration of a range of colours imparted to flames by metal ions. The striking part being that they are all on display simultaneously.
Mobile phone spectroscope
Spectroscopy is an important technique in many areas of science, not least Advanced Higher Chemistry. In this, part one of a two-part article, we show you how to make a simple, cheap type of spectrometer that can be fixed to your mobile phone to enable you to photograph the spectra.
Health & Safety
Working with DNA
Changes to the legislation that controls the way work with DNA is regulated, and the increasing availability of DNA practical work for schools makes a review of the guidance for experimental work with DNA in schools appropriate at this time.
Whole School Risk Assessments
Whole school risk assessments for nursery, primary and secondary schools.
From photons to food – Illuminating photosynthesis
The wonders and importance of the process of photosynthesis are presented to learners at many different levels and in several different contexts within Curriculum for Excellence
Interfacing with the Arduino UNO Platform (Part 1)
The first of two articles detailing how the Adruino UNO platform can be used to give examples of the use of microcontrollers in commercial and industrial applications in Engineering Science
Colorimetry in the school laboratory
An overview of the use of colorimeters in the teaching of Chemistry and Biology including a simple protocol to allow these devices to be used most effectively.
Let’s talk stem cells
Let’s Talk Stem Cells is an activity that provides teachers with a resource which supports (i) an understanding of stem cells, (ii) how they can be used
therapeutically, and (iii) a discussion activity which raises some of the issues relating to stem cells.
Health & Safety
Ch ch ch changes
Details of the various changes and improvements that we have implemented to the SSERC website over the past few months.
Health & Safety Toolbox
The HSE website now has a ‘toolbox’ section for publications that directly relate to the responsibilities of employers in the workplace.
Holding wood during machining
Limiting factors in photosynthesis – carbon dioxide
An article about the use of carbon dioxide probes to allow the measurement of the rate of photosynthesis with varying carbon dioxide concentrations present.
Demonstration corner – A catalyst at work
The classic experiment from the Royal Society of Chemistry that shows the formation of a temporary, coloured transitional complex in the reaction between hydrogen peroxide and potassium sodium tartrate (Rochelle salt) when catalysed by cobalt chloride.
The protactinium generator and its rivals
A look at the various options for demonstrating half-lives in the physics classroom and the factors that should be consideed.
Maintaining biological cultures in schools
Advice about how best to culture mocroorganisms for use in the classroom and how to keep those cultures alive.
Health & Safety
Safety in Microbiology – advice on training requirements
Advice for schools and colleges about the level of training required by a teacher/technician in an establishment that will permit different micribiological activities to be carried out.
Gas masks and Brodie helmets
With the upsurge in interest in life in the trenches, artefacts from the First World War are more likely to appear in the classroom. In some cases, however, there are Health and Safety issues that need to be considered.
A present for everyone
SSERC has been able to source two substantial pieces of scientific equipment to give out to local authorities on permanent loan.
Item one is a spectrophotometer and datalogger. The spectrophotometer allows teachers to examine the absorption and transmission of light passing through substances. When connected to the datalogger, clear graphs are displayed and data can be analysed using a variety of built-in tools.
The second item is a thermal imaging camera. This picks up the invisible heat radiation from an object, including a human being.
So, what is a ‘circular economy’?
This is a short introduction to the circular economy, written by Colin Webster, to whet the appetite for a forthcoming interdisciplinary opportunity run by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and SSERC.
From today to tomorrow – Businesses today follow a pattern of production that could be described as linear. They take resources out of the ground, process them to create products, sell them, and then we discard them. Take-make-dispose. It could be argued that this design for obsolescence approach makes business sense when materials and energy are cheap, and when the public has a plentiful supply of credit, but what happens when those conditions are no longer in place?
Time flies
If you have recently attended a residential SSERC CPD course you may well be familiar with the Veho VMS-001 USB digital microscope. In terms of versatility and value for money, the Veho is difficult to beat. We have been putting this useful little magnifier to further use lately – this time experimenting with time lapse photography.
Crumple zones – a new mindset
As physics teachers begin to tie together Outcome One investigations with N4 Added value units and N5 Assignments, the interest in reliable experiments suitable for these course elements has increased. We know that our friends at Road Safety Scotland have been lending out their Collision Investigation kits, as the exemplars in SQA course documentation on N4 and N5 relate to vehicle safety. However, we heard of another piece of apparatus that might be suitable, one that had the advantage of being relatively inexpensive. We refer to the USB accelerometer from Mindsets which at the time of writing, costs £24.95 before VAT.
Hydrogels
The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) defines a gel as a ‘non-fluid … polymer network that is expanded throughout its whole volume by a fluid’ and a hydrogel as a ‘gel in which the swelling agent is water’.
Health & Safety
Reptiles in schools
Recently the issue of whether reptiles should be kept in schools has been raised with SSERC. The concern on this occasion was that reptiles can be a source of Salmonella infection. It should be assumed that all reptiles carry Salmonella as part of their normal gastrointestinal flora.
Candida utilis – the Torula food yeast
From time to time SSERC has been asked for advice on using the yeast species Candida utilis for project and experimental work in schools. Candida utilis (also known as the Torula food yeast) is a yeast of industrial interest.
Limiting factors in photosynthesis
The Biology team in SSERC has recently been reviewing and updating the range of resources offered through our website to support the new Higher programmes in Biology and Human Biology.
Disc-o fever
Has your school invested in a set of iPads? If so, what are they used for in science? Web browsing? Document viewing? Simulations? On the Physics subject area of our website in the Other Resources category you will find a list of iOS and Android apps that people attending the 2013 IoP/SSERC Summer School found useful.
Demonstration corner – The ‘Northern Lights’
The phrase ‘The Northern Lights’ probably conjures up an image like those seen recently on the recent BBC 2 programme Stargazing Live. The phenomenon arises from the interaction/collision of charged particles with atoms or molecules in the upper reaches of the earth’s atmosphere. A significant proportion of the energy released from such processes appears in the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum.
We have come across another use of the term ‘The Northern Lights’ and it is this latter usage which forms the basis of this contribution from the Demonstration Corner Team.
Nitrogen and living things
In the two most recent SSERC bulletins (244 and 245 we offered descriptions of practical and discussion activities on the broad theme of ‘fertilisers and food security’. In Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) this theme is located in Line of Development 03 and in the unit entitled Life on Earth in each of the National 4 and National 5 courses in Biology At National 4 and 5 the theme broadens to include knowledge of the nitrogen cycle and the role of nitrogen in ecosystems.
Health & Safety
Suitable sources of eyes for dissection
From time to time SSERC receives enquires about suitable sources of eyes for dissection. The SSERC Code of Practice Materials of Living Origin – Educational Uses states in paragraph 4.5 that Only materials fit for human consumption obtained from abattoirs, butchers or fishmongers may be used for the purposes of dissection or experimentation. The measure that controls risk is using materials fit for human consumption rather than where the material is obtained from. It is the regulations for food production that reduce any potential hazard from using animal material for dissection or experimentation.
Skeletons in the cupboard
On occasion, we have had enquiries from schools about what to do when old human skeletal remains have been found, often lurking forgotten deep in a cupboard and a legacy from previous times. The guidance provided in the SSERC publication ‘Materials of Living Origin – Educational Uses; A Code of Practice for Scottish Schools’ states that states that Skeletal material (bones, teeth etc.) may be used for demonstration and for investigative work. The use of such material in school can be of considerable educational value and so long as all involved understand the educational objectives of using the material, there is no reason why the old human bones should not be kept for appropriate study.
How to get sued – an idiot’s guide
Very few teachers and technicians find themselves in court due to health and safety breaches, but if you really want to get in trouble, it can be done. All you need to do is disregard your employer’s health and safety guidance. This is not to scare you – more to highlight the ways in which sensible teachers and technicians stay out of trouble.
Increased space at SSERC
On September 17th, Dr Alasdair Allan MSP, Minister for Learning, Science and Scotland’s Languages opened a new building that greatly enhances our training space.
Demonstration corner – colour mixing
A number of methods are available to demonstrate mixing of different colours of light. One of the more intriguing methods that we have come across involves the use of so-called Lightsticks. In order to try this demonstration out we purchased a range of different coloured lightsticks (also known as glow sticks) from The Glow Company – www.TheGlowCompany.co.uk
Eutrophication – investigating the effects of fertilisers on the growth of an algal population
Warm summers in Scotland are usually met with great delight and this year has been no exception. However the hot, dry weather also contributed to some unwanted effects in many of our fresh water lochs and ponds. Cyanobacteria and fresh water algae, which live in these ecosystems, increased in number sometimes causing blue-green, or green blooms. In some cases these blooms took the form of unpleasant looking scum, or floating mats of algae.
Thermal imaging is cool
There are a good number of engaging activities that can be carried out with converted webcams to “see” into the infrared, but we always ended up telling teachers that they won’t pick up the radiation emitted by a person
because its frequency is too low for a silicon sensor. “For thermal imagery,” we’d say, “you need something costing thousands of pounds.”
Now, we’d tell them something slightly different. The FLIR i3, at £895 ex VAT, is not a device we’d dare describe as cheap when we know that some departments have around a tenth of this left from budgets after photocopying, but it is relatively inexpensive.
Digitising an image
A (possibly sad…) member of the SSERC Biology Team recently wanted to obtain the absorption spectrum of chlorophyll b in digital form. There are a number of ways by which this data set could be generated.
Health & Safety
Breaking bad bottles
We have had a few reports recently concerning the structural failure of plastic bottles. While this can often be a mere annoyance, the bottles in question have been ones containing concentrated acids.
Phenolphthalein
As the CLP/GHS system takes hold, a few changes in classification are coming to light. Most of these are minor alterations, usually due to shifting boundaries between, say, irritant and corrosive. A few, however, are more radical. Phenolphthalein is one such case.
Effective Doppler experiments
In Bulletin 234, we published an article called Higher Pitched about using the freeware sound handling package Audacity to demonstrate the Doppler Effect. It is a measure of the rapidity of change in the world of ICT that only two years later, we have a new method that is so much better it makes our previous efforts look almost embarrassing.
Fertilisers and food security
‘Food security is the provision of sufficient amounts of safe, affordable, nutritious food that we need to underpin the health and wellbeing of all the human population across the globe’. [Prof. Julie Fitzpatrick (Scientific Director, Moredun Research Institute); 2012].
The world is facing a potential crisis in terms of food security. The challenge is to produce and supply enough safe and nutritious food in a sustainable way for a growing global population, which is projected to reach 9 billion by 2050.
Fly by wire – the ethanol rocket
The whoosh bottle, which we know and love here at SSERC, has become a standard feature in many chemistry classrooms. More recently, a variation has come to light which not only shows the energy changes of the different fuels but puts that energy to use. The version of this that appeared in a recent Education in Chemistry uses a length of guttering as a guide and fires a fizzy drinks bottle a satisfying distance. Having been looking at this for a while before the EiC article was published we decided to get down to some serious development and soon decided on an important modification.
Demonstration corner – The Belousov-Zhabotinsky reaction
Ever wondered what to do with that ‘redundant’ overhead projector stored away in one of your cupboards? Within the Chemistry Team at SSERC we have been looking at variants of the Belousov-Zhabotinsky reaction (an example of an oscillating chemical reaction)and the version presented here is probably best seen using an OHP and screen.
Health & Safety
Asperger’s Syndrome and the school science lab
We recently had an enquiry asking for advice on supporting a pupil with Asperger’s Syndrome. This is a form of autism, so we contacted the National Autistic Society for advice. We recommend visiting their website for details of the condition. The society could not have been more helpful and, with permission, we have reproduced their advice here. Whilst not every piece of advice will apply to an individual pupil with AS, we hope that it will help you with the special risk assessment necessary for pupils with this syndrome.
Health and safety on farm visits
A new industry code of practice Preventing or controlling ill health from animal contact at visitor attractions now replaces previous advice from Scottish Government, Health Protection Scotland and HSE.
Not socket science?
Have a look at the humble UK 3 pin electrical socket. It epitomises what health and safety people call an “engineered control measure”. The steps to protect people from harm are built into it – no need to rely on them putting on protective equipment, no need to rely on them behaving in a sensible manner. A UK socket does this by having the live and neutral terminals covered by a shutter that only opens when the slightly longer earth pin is inserted. This design, to BS 1363, has been around since 1947. Some recent designs need all three pins to be inserted simultaneously before the shutters will open ……
Conductivity on the cheap
The conductivity of a solution is, not surprisingly, a measure of its ability to conduct electricity. The measurement of conductivity is a routine technique in many industrial and environmental applications as a fast, cheap and reliable way of measuring the ionic content of a solution. It is commonly used, for instance, as a method of assessing the effectiveness of water purification systems
Demonstration corner – The Silver Mirror
Just to show that chemistry is not all about whooshes and bangs, here is a quiet, gentle and beautiful demonstration that is really quite easy to do.
The Modern Science Teacher – new publication
SSERC’s latest publication The Modern Science Teacher is designed as an introductory support for new entrants to the science teaching profession.
A year in the life of SSERC
For the past few years SSERC has published a year planner which features our professional development courses for the coming 12 months. The most recent version has been printed and copies have been sent to schools throughout Scotland.
Logging in a wireless wonderland
For the past few years SSERC has published a year planner which features our professional development courses for the coming 12 months. The most recent version has been printed and copies have been sent to schools throughout Scotland.
Health & Safety
Risk assessment revisited
It has been some time since we published specific guidance about the process of risk assessment. Recently, we have noticed an upsurge in the number of enquiries about this, so we felt that it was a good time to address some of the frequently asked questions on the topic.
Beyond the visible
Explorations with a simple, inexpensive digital microscope – images taken with the Veho VMS-001 200x USB digital microscope.
Doing it outdoors
Duncan MacLean, Senior Tutor at the Field Studies Council centre at Kindrogan, offers us his insight into why outdoor learning should be encouraged.
Demonstration corner
The elephant’s toothpaste – This is a fun, yet simple demonstration showing the exothermic catalytic breakdown of hydrogen peroxide.
Dopa oxidase, a perfect enzyme?
The advent of the Revised and CfE Highers in Biology and Human Biology, and Revised and CfE Advanced Higher in Biology [1-4] has prompted the Biology Team in SSERC to consider different enzyme systems for use in practical work and/or investigations.
Health & Safety
Eye dissection – using deer eyes
SSERC has recently received a number of enquiries about whether deer eyes can be used for dissection. Although not mentioned specifically in the Code of Practice Materials of Living Origin the guidance within the code is also relevant for use with deer eyes. Furthermore general advice on eye dissection can be found in the SSERC Bulletin articles Dissecting eyes – hints and tips and Dissecting bulls’ eyes.
Citric acid
When carrying out any quantitative work in chemistry, it is important to know the concentration of any solutions you use. Too great a concentration and some reactions will become dangerous, too low a concentration and some reactions will not work.
An eagle-eyed SSERC member has spotted that different containers of citric acid which her school has bought recently from the same supplier have different hazard symbols on them and is, understandably, a bit confused…….The precautions taken when handling a chemical should be determined by a risk assessment that uses the best available advice. We would suggest, not surprisingly perhaps, that the advice of SSERC trumps the ‘raw’ MSDS as ours is drawn up considering the sorts of uses and exposure encountered in schools.
Let’s Talk – Diet, Diabetes and Obesity
Like many areas of the UK, Scotland is experiencing a dramatic increase in obesity and the related health issues which arise from some members of our population being overweight. The increase in the number of people who have Type 2 diabetes correlates to this increase in obesity and the overall trend has been likened to an epidemic. This discussion activity allows the scientific and societal issues to be explored.
Dissecting eyes – hints and tips
Hands on activities such as carrying out an eye dissection are extremely engaging and exciting for learners. Even a demonstration carried out by their teacher can bring the most attractive illustrations of the eye to life for learners and aid their understanding of its anatomy and physiology. In our view, it is a pity that many teachers and science departments have shied away from carrying out eye dissections with their classes in the belief that ‘eyes are banned’.
Reaction timers
Three years ago, SSERC teamed up with Elaine Lorimer from Renfrewshire Road Safety to look at ways of teaching forces in the context of road safety. The result was a reaction timer designed with the help of Fifex and subsequently manufactured by that company.
Standard solutions
When carrying out any quantitative work in chemistry, it is important to know the concentration of any solutions you use. Too great a concentration and some reactions will become dangerous, too low a concentration and some reactions will not work.
Demonstration corner – The Whoosh Bottle
This is a tremendous demonstration from the RSC showing the exothermic nature of the combustion of alcohol. It looks particularly spectacular in a darkened room.
Health and Safety
The Story of a Standard
There are standards on performance; there are standards on safety. This is the story of the making of a safety standard for electrical apparatus for school laboratories. (The story is told from a personal perspective.) It covers most things electrical – ovens, fridges, heating mantles, centrifuges, power supplies, oscilloscopes and multimeters – and all manner of hazards – heat, fire, explosion, noise, radiation, cuts and bruises, scalding and electrocution. Exceptions are IT equipment and plugtop devices. Furthermore, the standard relates to the special needs of infants aged 3 and above, children in primary and secondary schools, and young persons aged up to 18 in educational laboratories.
Hazardous chemicals updates
Now the new website (www.sserc.org.uk) is up and running, the long process has begun of updating the hazardous chemicals section to bring it in line with CLP/GHS.
The circular saw
It’s always worthwhile frequently going back to www.hse.gov.uk. A search for ‘wood’ currently reveals downloadable files including a very useful poster on the circular saw. On the website, search ‘wood’. Next, select ‘Health & Safety in the Woodworking Industry’ then look under ‘Resources’.
Start taking the tablets?
Many teachers, and indeed students, own smartphones and tablets. Here we look at some interfacing and analysis applications from two companies associated with datalogging hardware and software – iCelsius temperature probe, Vernier Video Physics and Pasco Airlink.
Colorimetry on the cheap
Colorimetry is simply the measurement of colour. Simple visual colorimetry is familiar to anyone who has been involved with maintenance of a swimming pool and use of the human eye to determine the intensity of a coloured solution is much more accurate than is generally thought: that said, it is not possible to get a really accurate measurement of just how intense a colour is or how cloudy a solution may be.
As a technique of huge importance in chemistry, colorimetry is one of the most widely used methods for quantitative chemical analysis. Unfortunately, it is not used as widely in schools as it should be, largely due to cost. In this article, we will show you how to construct a workable colorimeter for use throughout the school for the cost of only a few pence.
Making your own microsyringe
Microsyringes are available from a range of suppliers and can vary in both price and complexity. For measurement of single volumes, we find the range of Volac Minipipets from NCBE is particularly useful – allowing reliable measurement of volumes of 5 μl, 10 μL, 20 μl, 25 μl, 50 μl and 100 μl, although at a price of £16 per syringe class sets might be difficult to obtain. NCBE also provide packs of microsyringes which are suitable for measuring volumes as small as 2 μl and 5 μl when using graduated tips.
In this short paper we wish to show you how you can make your own perfectly serviceable microsyringe capable of measuring volumes from 10 μl to 200 μl in 10 μl increments; the cost of 10 such syringes is approximately £2.00.
Health and Safety
Dissecting bulls’ eyes
Within SSERC we have received a number of enquiries recently about health and safety concerns about the dissection of animal materials both in terms of what is permissible and where such materials can be sourced. In particular we regularly receive enquiries about dissection of bulls’ eyes. Information on complying with legislation that includes the dissection of bulls’ eyes in schools is contained within the document Materials of Living Origin. As a result of recent changes in legislation the Code of Practice Materials of Living Origin has been reviewed and updated copies will be sent to all Member schools in the autumn term of 2012.
Codes of Practice (3rd editions published)
Safety in Microbiology – Since working with micro-organisms is covered by the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations, it is necessary to have suitable and sufficient control measures in place which have been developed as a result of assessing the risks involved.
Materials of Living Origin – Education uses – Along with the belief that the use of material of living origin in schools can considerably enhance children’s educational experience, for any educational application of living materials to be justifiable, it has to bring with it strong and positive educational benefits.
Professional Development @ SSERC
For a number of years SSERC has been receiving funding from the Scottish Government to support professional development activities for teachers, student teachers and technicians. We like to think that we are pretty good at what we do and this has been borne out by a recent external evaluation of our CPD provision by the Scottish Council for Research in Education at the University of Glasgow.
Photosynthesis and Respiration
The Biology Team in SSERC has previously published, in this Bulletin and elsewhere, details of methods involving the aquatic plant Cabomba and how these can be used to show the processes of both photosynthesis and respiration. The construction of so-called Cabomba towers can be tricky and may require some practice before reliable results are obtained. We wish to report here a simplified version which overcomes some of the technical obstacles associated with Cabomba towers.
Natures’s Neons
Now that the Arrangements Documents for the Revised and CfE Highers in Biology and Human Biology have been published the Biology Team within SSERC is preparing to publish a series of protocols to support practical work contained therein. Many of these protocols will appear on the SSERC website or in the SSERC Bulletin. The Arrangements Documents all include a suggestion that students might explore ‘Experiments on ATP dependent reactions, e.g. luciferase, luminescent reactions’.
(Son of) Flash Chromatography
Almost all science teachers are familiar with chromatography in one form or another. Though they differ in many respects, all forms of chromatography work by exploiting different interactions between the dyes and the two components of the chromatography setup.
Health & Safety
Advanced Higher Students & SSERC
We encourage students to work with SSERC on AH investigations. We lend equipment, invite them to our premises and answer queries concerning their practical work. This last area does raise one or two issues concerning safety and child protection. To address these, we ask that certain protocols are observed.
Inductors – the shocking truth
Most physics teachers are familiar with SSERC’s guidance on Van de Graaff generators, most recently updated in Bulletin 223. Recently, we have had a couple of enquiries on shocking pupils with inductor coils, along the lines of, “I’ve been doing this for years, but is it allowed?” The obvious answer is, “If you don’t know, don’t do it until you find out.” Having said that, there seems to be no readily-accessible information available to teachers on whether or not this is a safe thing to do. What is more, pupils may accidentally shock themselves when working with inductors.
The Signs are still a-changin’
Now the shiny new diamond-shaped labels are becoming commonplace in your laboratories, the time has come for an update on the process so far. The next stage is the labelling of ‘mixtures’. This comes into force in June 2015 and existing stock can be sold until June 2017. Until then, the old CHIP labelling system can still be used (though it probably won’t be). This could theoretically lead to the odd situation of the same supplier sending you in the same package copper sulphate labelled according to CLP and copper sulphate solution labelled according to CHIP – quite legally.We answer the following questions:
So where does all this leave teachers and technicians?
What effect will it have on what is taught and how it is taught?
What are we doing at SSERC?
What can you do to help?
Diet Drinks and Mentos
A fun fluorescent version of the classic primary school activity .
Measuring gaseous carbon dioxide
In Unit 2 (Metabolism and Survival), part 2 (Maintaining Metabolism) of the Revised Higher in Biology one of the suggested learning activities and approaches is to ‘Investigate metabolic rate using oxygen, carbon dioxide and temperature probes’. The aims of this article are twofold viz (i) to show how gaseous CO2 can be measured in experimental systems, and (ii) to highlight the availability from SSERC, via a loan system, of a set of carbon dioxide sensors.
Immobilised algae and respiration
For studies at Biology National 4 and 5 it is likely that experimental systems involving the use of Elodea and/or Cabomba will be recommended. The Biology Team in SSERC has previously published, in this Bulletin and elsewhere, details of methods involving the aquatic plant Cabomba. Immobilised algae have increasingly been used since details of their preparation and descriptions of appropriate experimental conditions for classroom practicals were first published.
Make a Hero’s Engine
“I’m looking for a simple experiment to show motion from steam production.” On receiving this query, vague memories of coming across an on-line guide to making a Hero’s Engine made from a soft drinks can were stirred (not shaken). We set about checking to see if it actually worked. Having determined that it did, we then assessed whether or not it was safe.
To the Finish
How do you finish mild steel components in your department? Do you remember the days when hot components were immersed in old engine oil to blacken steel surfaces? Oil blackening has associated with it high risk, health and safety hazards. But what are the alternatives – brush or spray painting?
Health and Safety
Animal Manure
Over the past few months we have received a number of enquiries relating visits to farms and the use of well-rotted manure in school grounds and gardens. Here is our advice.
Food Dyes and Electrophoresis
Over the past few months members of the Biology Team within SSERC have received a number of enquiries indicating that the experiment has failed to work effectively. Here we wish to report our suggestions as to how one might overcome such problems.
Hair Laser
We pass on details of a rather attractive diffraction experiment – because you’re worth it. A human hair is the ideal diameter to show the diffraction of laser light. We show a diffraction pattern, with characteristic maxima and minima, but note that it is curved. The curvature comes about because the hair is not at right angles to the beam. The laser light strikes the hair obliquely, almost running along the strand. Indeed, it is possible to make a complete circle of laser light.
What’s new on the equipment front?
Here we look at three pieces of apparatus that offer features that you might not have come across before :-
Picoscope USB oscilloscope
Lascells Digital Signal Generator
Data Harvest EasySense Vision.
Health and Safety
Safety in Numbers
Advice on reporting of accidents and how the legislation (RIDDOR) affects schools and colleges.
Changes to radioactivity law
The law on radioactivity is of a complexity that defies belief. One part of it, on exemptions to the Radioactive Substances Act 1993, has just been modernised. This is the part of the law controlling what sources you (‘you’ in this context meaning a school) are allowed to acquire and keep, and, at the end of the material’s working life, how it can be got rid of.
Secure your chemicals
Many of you will now have seen the aforementioned document. Hopefully you should realise that there is no cause for alarm. It is worthwhile, however, running through a summary of the document and its implication for school science departments.
As part of a general tightening up of access to potentially dangerous chemicals, particularly in light of current security concerns, the Home Office approached SSERC and CLEAPSS with a document they had produced for industry with a view to our adapting itfor educational use. After a certain amount of to and fro, we managed to come up with the document Secure Your Chemicals.
Gas explosions caused by static electricity
There are two types of explosion which can result from the ignition of a gas-air mixture by a spark discharge. These are known as ‘confined’ and ‘unconfined’ gas-air explosions. With the former type there is a massive rise in pressure with temperature, which can result in the chamber blowing apart explosively. With the latter, there is a large sheet of flame caused by the expansion of the gaseous mixture with temperature, and a consequential risk of fire. If gas leaks into a building, one way or another, there is a risk of harm to the property, and life or limb.
Safety in Microbiology – training to Level 3
The Code of Practice Safety in Microbiology was produced and developed by SSERC for use in Scottish schools and FE colleges. SSERC is a Local Authority (LA) shared service so all LA schools can access the SSERC advisory service. Many independent schools and some FE colleges are also members of SSERC. Most LAs have adopted Safety in Microbiology as part of their guidance on Health and Safety. Where this is the case schools should work to the Code of Practice. If schools do not use Safety in Microbiology as a Code of Practice, or wish to depart from its recommendations in some way, they must carry out the appropriate risk assessments.
Ultraviolet & infrared – the hidden radiations
A guide to practical work on the two hidden parts of optical radiation – ultraviolet and infrared – has been placed on the SSERC website. This article gives an overview of its contents
Rocks to Riches
We outline here a practical activity that uses simple colorimetric analysis, to determine the percentage of copper in a simulated mineral-rich ore. This activity considers how market demands determine the economic viability of extracting the copper and how by simple electrolysis the copper is refined in order for it to be used in everyday products.
Antioxidants: Recipe Remedies
Since the article in Bulletin 232, there has been an increase in the number of enquiries for Advanced Higher projects concerning antioxidants. Here are some possible solutions to some common problems.
Fun with Fluorescence!
We are all probably familiar with materials which fluoresce. In this article we discuss some examples of fluorescence and how these can be explored in a classroom context. It is useful to consider what we mean by the term fluorescence and a useful starting definition is ‘The emission of light by a substance that has absorbed light or other electromagnetic radiation of a different wavelength’. With very few exceptions, the fluorescence emitted by a substance is at a longer wavelength than the light which has been absorbed.
Designing cut-outs using Arcs
Whether using CAD or working with a pencil in the workshop, the following formulae take the guesswork out of arc cut-outs on designed products. How often do we cut an arc into materials using two end points at an edge? The use of paint tin lids springs to mind, carefully drawing around it, with little thought of ‘radius’ or ‘height’ of the arc into the material.
Health & Safety
RF Radiation Risk – who to believe?
The BioInitiative Working Group asserted that adverse health effects have been demonstrated from exposure to radiofrequency (RF) fields at levels below current guidelines. “The entire basis for safety standards is called into question, and it is not unreasonable to question the safety of RF [energy] at any level.”
Secure Storage of Chemicals
The Home Office is in the process of setting up a programme called Secure Your Chemicals, aimed at ensuring all holders and users of particular hazardous chemicals have effective systems to manage and monitor their stock. This applies to schools as well as industries and SSERC (together with CLEAPSS in England), is working with the Home Office to produce some appropriate guidance. This guidance is likely to confirm existing SSERC advice and should not, therefore, present any issues to well-run science and D&T departments.
Used Battery Fire
We have had a report of a fire in a used-battery recycling container in the stores of a government laboratory. The fire was put out using fire fighting appliances before the fire service arrived on site, but things would have been worse if the incident had happened outside of working hours.
Safe Use of Woodworking Machinery – ACOP
Up until now, the Safe use of wood-working machinery, ‘Approved Code of Practice and Guidance’ (ACOP) has only been available to buy as a book from the HSE (Health and Safety Executive). This ACOP was prepared by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) after consultation with industry. The advice given in the Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) and guidance reflects the precautions that are widely accepted and used to reduce risks from woodworking machinery.
Anne Adams (1950-2011)
Obituary of our Technician colleague, Anne Adams
Cabomba Tricolour
In a recent publication [we explored how Cabomba might be used as a reliable alternative to Elodea and we wish to extend these observations in the experiments described here. In the experiments that follow (described in more detail in a related publication) we present an experimental set-up which provides a stimulating way of engaging students and we contend that this will lead to greater understanding that plants respire continuously and of the effect of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis.
Climate change … are plants the answer?
Sixty percent of the photosynthesis on our planet is carried out by a huge variety of water-dwelling plant species. Of these, phytoplankton, which make up less than one percent of the planet’s biomass, contribute about fifty percent of its photosynthesis. Vast populations of ocean dwelling phytoplankton (comprising a diverse group of microscopic algae, photo- synthesising bacteria, cyanobacteria, plant-like diatoms and calcium carbonate-coated coccolithophores) have recently been of interest to climate scientists.
How wide does a laser cut …?
By definition, a saw kerf is the width of a saw cut, the kerf being wider than the saw blade due to the set of the saw teeth. We are aware of the size of a circular saw kerf, usually around 3 mm material removed for each saw cut, we make allowances for this dimension. When we cut with saws, we cut on the waste side of ‘the line’ to ensure correct dimensions after sawing. But what about the size of a laser cut kerf, it is usually assumed to be so small that it doesn’t matter, but can we really make this assumption? Laser cutting say a 50 mm square from CAD software, does it really produce a product 50 mm square? What about the laser kerf width, is it a constant? Does it matter if the square is cut externally or internally?
Smart uses of QTC
Quantum Tunnelling Composite (QTC) was first produced in 1996 and has proved to be a very versatile pressure sensor as its resistance changes from the order of 1012 Ω to 1 Ω when pressure is applied. It can be directly interfaced to electrical and electronic devices.
Websites and Publications
A roundup of various websites and print resources available from SSERC
Higher Sciences Resources
Learning and Teaching Scotland has informed us that they are making resources available on line to support the new Higher science qualifications. Some of the materials have been developed with substantial input from SSERC. We look forward to having a good look at everything on offer when we have appropriate access.
Higher Pitched – Doppler Ball
An experiment on the Doppler Effect for the new Higher Physics qualification. Teachers have made it clear that the new content in the forthcoming course should be supported by practical work. Here we look at an experiment on the Doppler effect that could be used in the Cosmology part of the Our Dynamic Universe unit.
Effervescent Enzymes
In this short article, we present an experimental protocol for the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide by catalase that we believe to be both robust and accessible and which, therefore, should prove useful in supporting the delivery of outcome SCN 4-13b. Further experimental details will be made available on the SSERC website.
Clock Face Designing
Anyone who has designed a clock face using a CAD system would know the problems of firstly deciding a diameter for the dial, then constructing the 12 x 30° hour positions (showing off using polar coordinates!) deciding on the hour text/graphics then trying to obtain the correct position and so on. Now this process has become a lot easier thanks to Ekits Clock Designer Software (version 4). This costs £14.95 for a single copy, £49.95 for a site licence version.
Alternative Photography
An introduction to some alternative photography processes, especially the cyanotype: an iron based process which is both cheap and easy, not even requiring a darkroom.
Health and Safety
Mercury in Schools
A number of issues relating to the use of mercury in schools have recently come to light and which need some clarification, which we attempt to provide.
Ocean Optics Spectrophotometer
In Bulletin 228 we reviewed two relatively low cost USB spectrophotometers suitable for use in schools and suggested some activities that could be carried out using these devices. We have learned of another budget model, the SC-500, made by Ocean Optics for Scientific and Chemical.
Annual Conference & Free CPD
A key date in the SSERC calendar is the Annual Conference and AGM which in 2010 will be held at the Carnegie Conference Centre, Dunfermline, on Friday 3rd December. A major theme for this year’s conference is the important and continuing role which SSERC plays in offering professional development for teachers, technicians and student teachers.
Respiration Rate Sensor
ElectroLycra’s resistance changes with length. It forms a branch of a Wheatstone Bridge and the change in length of the ElectroLycra is detected by measuring the off-balance voltage using a voltage sensor connected to a data logger.
Polymerase Chain Reaction
We have previously described the development of a PCR protocol suitable for use in secondary schools and colleges. More recently our colleagues at the National Centre for Biotechnology Education (NCBE) have refined the protocol and made it available in the form of a self-contained kit. The current (July 2010) cost of the full kit from NCBE is £140. The PCR kit, as marketed by NCBE, allows students to extract chloroplast DNA from plants and identify possible evolutionary relationships between different species. What the protocol, as written, does not demonstrate is that increasing the number of amplification cycles during PCR will increase the amount of DNA present for staining in the electrophoresis stage. Clearly for PCR to work this increase in the amount of DNA present must be happening but we thought it would be both interesting and useful to have a protocol which could be utilised to show that this is the case. So, there is one key aim of the experiment we describe here – viz to show that an increase in the number of PCR cycles leads to an increase in the amount of DNA which can be observed.
The Hole Truth
When last did you change the speed on your pillar/pedestal drill? Have you settled for some mid-range speed in the hope that the drill copes with all drilling requirements? Have we lost the art of matching the correct drill speed to the drill diameter? Modern pedestal drills typically have 12 speeds ranging from about 180 rpm to 2740 rpm, this adequately covers the correct speeds for drilling ferrous, non ferrous metals, acrylics, hard and softwoods. But what is the correct speed for drilling materials found in school workshops taking into consideration the material, the drill type and drill diameter?
Health and Safety
Chemical Store Temperatures
Recently we have had an increasing number of queries about high temperatures in chemical stores and, whilst not questioning the reality of global warming, it seems there is more to the matter than the merely climatic. Although it is clear that modern schools are better insulated and thus provide warmer environments than used to be the case there would appear to be more to it than that.
Optical Radiation
The SSERC team has just finished drafting guidance to schools on using optical radiation safely. All common school sources are covered. Our advice is based on information in British Standards and from the Health Protection Agency’s work.
Ultrasonic welding of plastics
A brief guide to ultrasonic welders which can spot weld and seam weld any plastic material in seconds and are just becoming available for educational use.
New Teltron Equipment
Here we look at four of the latest Teltron Tubes for use in the physics laboratory: the Perrin Tube, Thomson Tube, Electron Diffraction Tube and the Dual Beam Tube. All the tubes examined incorporate electron-gun assemblies contained within an evacuated clear glass bulb.
mm waves
In order for pupils to be able to make a decision about whether they agree with the use of whole body scanners at airports or not they need to be informed about the properties of millimetre waves. SSERC recently hosted part two of their Physics Residential course and were delighted to welcome Dave McFarlane from the Millimetre Wave Group at St Andrews University to update teachers on their knowledge of mm waves and their uses.
CPD – Leading for Excellence in Science
Leading for Excellence in Science is SSERC’s response to supporting those with leadership responsibilities for science education in secondary schools. This course is aimed at all of those who have, or aspire to have, responsibility for leading science education in their establishments.
Brine shrimps
This article offers some suggestions and information for technicians and teachers to maximise the populations of brine shrimps in school. Although the basic information given in the Brine Date box is very useful and the set up information is easy to follow, we present a few extra hints and tips to ensure the brine shrimp tank is kept in prime condition.
Antioxidants
An introduction to an interesting method for investigating antioxidant activity by looking at the perturbation of the oscillations in the fascinating Briggs-Rauscher reaction. Left alone the reaction cycles from colourless to yellow to a sudden blue about 15 times. Adding antioxidants at any point causes a delay in proportion to the antioxidant concentration/activity
Health and Safety
Lab taps and backflow
The Water Regulatory Advisory Scheme (WRAS), which is the UK water industry’s approval scheme, has recently issued further comments on laboratory taps. In this article, we attempt to interpret this advice for schools and colleges.
The Art of Induction
Here we look at a method for examining the factors that affect the voltage induced across a coil by a moving magnet. Schools are likely to have most of the necessary equipment for these activities. We see the potential for an Advanced Higher investigation here; indeed a student from an Edinburgh secondary school visited SSERC to carry out the experiments detailed.
Pasco SPARK
A review of the Pasco SPARK datalogging system
Credit Crunch CPD
Information on courses that we will be running in partnership with Research Councils UK, following an agreement between SSERC and the National Science Learning Centre. These courses bring teachers and researchers together to promote contemporary, exciting science in the classroom.
Tackling big issues (Let’s Talk)
Let’s Talk is an initiative, funded by the AstraZeneca Science Teaching Trust and the Wellcome Trust, which aims to encourage Scottish primary and early secondary school pupils to discuss important health related science issues. Let’s Talk sets out to provide young people with the knowledge and skills that will serve them in the future to evaluate both the choices on offer and the messages that accompany them.
Health and Safety
Signs they are a changin’
An introduction to the new Globally Harmonised System (GHS) for packaging and labelling of chemicals, implemented in the UK by the Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) Regulations.
Laser Guidance
We have recently revised our guidance on the use of lasers by pupils. Previously, we had said that certain lasers could be used by pupils in S3 and above. Much more is now known about lasers and their associated hazards. We therefore feel that we can extend their use to S1 and S2. Thus, all secondary pupils may work with lasers.
Toilet Tissue Challenge
This practical addresses the problems associated with poor hand hygiene in a fun way, with a definite ‘eaugh-yuk’ factor which we hope will appeal to teenagers, while getting across a very important message.
SSERC Conference 2009
Review of the SSERC Conference and AGM, held in the Carnegie Conference Centre in Dunfermline at the end of November.
Photodiode Quantum Efficiency
Counting photons – After several calls for help from teachers of AH students who had been trying to measure the power of a laser by irradiating a thermistor and looking for a change in resistance we thought surely there must be a better way with equipment that’s readily available or components that are inexpensive. So we thought of photodiodes and came to see that this is a good way of consolidating quantum theory with classical effects. Here is a method for counting the photons in visible radiation.
Dye Sensitised Solar Cells Part 2
Following on from the last article, which described the Man Solar kit which can be used to produce dye-sensitised solar cells (DSSCs), this part describes some of the results obtained when various natural dyes were tested as photon-receptors, and the pH dependency. It also looks at the regeneration of the electrodes, and describes how to produce new titanium dioxide coated electrodes. Lastly there are suggestions of where this new technology could be incorporated within the 3-18 framework.
Health and Safety
Health and Safety Roundup
Brief notes on . .
Unsafe chargers
Workplace first-aid changes
Gas Safe Register taking over the statutory gas registration scheme in Great Britain from CORGI.
Drinking of water in labs
New AV installation specification
Summer of CPD
Information about the upcoming SSERC Summer Schools CPD opportunities.
True Grit
As the number of available abrasive types have increased over recent years, the selection and purchase of suitable abrasives has now become a difficult task. Today the term ‘sandpaper’ is often used to cover any type of abrasive material, of which there are many. This article seeks to help guide your choice.
Column Chromatography of Food Dyes
Many pupils are familiar with the technique of paper chromatography in its various forms either with inks or food dyes, but few are aware of column chromatography. This method uses a length of soda glass tubing approximately 20 cm long, or a glass Pasteur pipette as the column. Both columns give very good separation.
Blue People of Troublesome Creek
Ramette introduced the phrase ‘exocharmic reactions’ to describe reactions and demonstrations, particularly those in chemistry, which fascinate, allure or delight the observer. Despite their undoubted value as pedagogic aids, collections of demonstrations for use in biology teaching are not widely available. One might argue, therefore, that we need some exocharmic demonstrations for biology. Whilst the example that follows is not new, a minor tweak to the standard experimental conditions used means that we have produced a ‘nice’ demonstration to support delivery of the biology curriculum.
Zinc Powder Problems
People have been having problems wiht their zinc powder – we investigate.
Health and Safety
X-Bacteria – additional safety advice
X-Bacteria is a practical kit, funded by The Wellcome Trust, which forms part of the Survival Rivals series of activities to celebrate Darwin Year. These excellent activities, which are available free to schools, enable pupils to examine different aspects of evolution.
Mystrica Colorimeter
Colorimeters are desirable, occasionally essential, pieces of equipment for use in secondary chemistry and biology laboratory work. A major factor which limits the availability of colorimeters is cost. In this report we explore the design, reliability and scope of a new colorimeter marketed by Mystrica (see www.Mystrica.com).
Science CPD at SSERC
We have previously reported on the work of the three-year project Support for Science Education in Scotland through CPD. Through this collaborative, Scottish Government funded project, SSERC and its partners offer experiential professional development opportunities to a range of groups who are key to providing a stimulating learning environment for school science. As we approach the end of the first year of the work of The Project it is worth taking stock of what we have achieved.
How much sun is too much? – UV sensitive yeasts
Over the last decade the incidence of skin cancer in Scotland (specifically malignant melanoma) has increased by a staggering 30%. A significant factor, particularly amongst younger people, is the use of sun-beds to achieve that healthy glow. It is therefore important to ensure that our young people are informed of the dangers of too much sun or the over-use of sun-beds. We describe a practical activity which can be used to underpin this message.
Fresh Chips/CAD Tutor
Intel® have recently launched its Core™ i7 Processor. As a result of changes in the architecture of the processor chip, the benefits are faster, intelligent multi-task applications. Within School Technology departments, obvious benefits will be when working with your favourite CAD/CAM/CAE packages,
Spectrophotometers for Schools
Here we review two spectrophotometers suitable for use in school science labs. Both connect to computers via the USB connection. The models we looked at were the Red Tide from Ocean Optics and the SpectroVis from Vernier.
Magnetohydrodynamic Motor
Following on from the homopolar motor described earlier, and inspired by an article by Abdul-Razzaq et al in Physics Education magazine, we describe an electric motor where the moving conductor is a liquid. The study of the movement of electrically conducting fluids is known as magnetohydrodynamics.
CAD-CAM – Problems with Windows Vista
The CAD/CAM in Schools programme, launched in June 1999, was implemented to ensure that all secondary schools in the UK have access to CAD/CAM. As a result of this initiative, Pro/DESKTOP a feature-based solid modeller software for Windows is now used in over 75% of UK secondary school Technology Departments.While Pro/DESKTOP was not designed for use with Windows Vista, it is possible to enable successful running under Vista. One of the most noticeable problems with Pro/DESKTOP and Vista is an immediate error message when trying to create an extrusion.
Small Scale Demo of Biodiesel Production
We have developed a method which allows students to make biodiesel for themselves quickly and simply. By keeping the scale small and doing the reaction quickly, the exposure to risk is much reduced. The biodiesel can be collected by either leaving the mixture to settle overnight, or by separating them using a centrifuge. The overnight method produces a purer product, but the use of a centrifuge means the entire process can be carried out in about half an hour.
Darwin 200
Highlighting some resources to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin, this year.
Crumple zones activity
SSERC’s physics activity on crash testing and crumple zones has attracted attention from the Times Educational Supplement, the Institute of Physics (IoP) and Road Safety Scotland. Now schools throughout the country can try this activity for themselves.
Dye Sensitised Solar Kit – Part 1
Dye sensitised solar cells (DSSCs) or Grätzel cells use a dye which directly converts the energy of sunlight into electrical energy using a process which is similar, in some aspects, to photosynthesis. Various dyes can be used in DSSCs which will have different photon trapping efficiencies, and this could form the basis of interesting student investigations linking biology, chemistry and physics to the aspirations of Curriculum for Excellence at Level 4. It also lends itself to AH Chemistry projects.
Dry Ice Maker
We have recently had a query about one of these not working. It transpired that the problem could well have been with the type of gas cylinder and not the attachment. Dry ice making attachments will only work with a particular type of CO2 cylinder. The cylinder must be fitted with a dip tube (this is often referred to as a ‘siphon type’ cylinder). This allows liquid CO2 to be siphoned from the bottom of the cylinder.
Showing convection currents using rheoscopic fluid
Pearlescent fluid is something that we have all seen in products that we buy everyday (Figure 1). It is added to shampoo, bubble bath and liquid soap to give them that luxurious, pearly iridescent look. Pearl SwirlTM fluid is commercially available as a liquid concentrate pearly white suspension from Middlesex University Teaching Resources and is an example of a rheoscopic fluid. It is non-flammable, unreactive and contains no toxic materials.
Interfaces – The Next Generation
A review of some of the latest datalogging equipment: Pasco Xplorer GLX, Vernier Labquest, Asus EEE PC and Go! Sensors
Science CPD at SSERC
An update on upcoming science CPD courses – and an introduction to some new SSERC personnel.
Metals – Manufacturing Processes
Focus Educational Software Limited have in the past produced products such as Resistant Materials, Plastics-manufacturing processes, Focus on Mechanisms, Focus on Mechanical Toys and Focus on Wood Joints. A new addition to their software catalogue is Focus on Metals – manufacturing processes.
The software allows the study of twelve industrial processes via a range of animations, video clips and images support written text. This allows industrial practice into the classroom.
Health and Safety
From Bugs to Big Beasties and other Queries
SSERC receives many enquiries as to which activities are permissible in a school within Health and Safety Guidelines. This article aims to highlight some of the common and not-so-common Biology related enquiries we have received over recent months.
Sign of the Times
An investigation of signs used within Technology departments
Determining the rate constant and the order of a reaction
The following experiment highlights a method of determining the rate constant and the order of a reaction. It uses the reaction between household bleach and blue food colouring.
Investigating the compensation point of algae
Pupils studying Higher Biology often have difficulty in understanding the concept of plant compensation points (the light level at which the rates of photosynthesis and respiration are equal). The experiment described here provides a method for exploring the light conditions under which either respiration or photosynthesis dominates.
Motion Analysis Using tracker.jar
Recently, we have been looking at analysing motion using video clips from digital cameras. Tracker.jar is a free motion analysis application written by Doug Brown of Cabrillo College, California.
Science CPD at SSERC
We are delighted that the Scottish Government has granted further support for SSERC and its partners to continue and build on ‘Support for Scottish Science Education through CPD’ until March 2011.
The magic of Refractive Index
If a transparent object is immersed in a transparent liquid that has the same refractive index as the material the object is made of, it disappears. This striking demonstration is easily performed.
Bridging the Gap – CPD
CPD to support Curriculum for Excellence in science – sponsored by the Scottish Government A series of practically-based, residential workshops for teachers of biology, chemistry, physics & integrated science. Participants will receive resources and equipment for use in the classroom.
Health and Safety
Product Safety Standard for Schools and RCDs now needed in homes and schools under new regulations
We are pleased to report that BSI have published a draft standard, being a safety specification for electrical products for use by children in schools. Being derived from BE EN 61010-1, it sets additional conditions on fusing, the accessibility of dangerous parts, surface temperatures, water resistance and the emission of UV and laser radiation.
The IEE Wiring Regulations have been changed: the new regulations came into force on 1 July 2008. One of the main changes for schools and homes is additional protection for socket-outlets with residual current devices (RCDs) additional in the sense that the RCD supplements the normal fault-condition protection provided by fuses and other overcurrent trips.
Radiation Safety
We wrote about source security in 2006 after a school lost its radioactivity cabinet, along with its stock of sources. Alas, in 2007, the same thing happened in another school. With three lost cabinets in five years, what can we all learn to stop further loss?
Producing a key – A different prespective
Pupils are presented with the challenge of producing a key that could be used by people who are blind. They should be encouraged to think about the problems that a blind person would encounter and the skills they would be able to use in trying to identify specimens. Working in groups of three, pupils are then required to produce a ‘paired statements’ classification key which they would read out. From this, a blind person should be able to identify a number of biological specimens, either in the classroom or out in the field.
Motion Analysis Using Digital Video – Windows Movie Maker
Following our piece in SSERC Bulletin 221 on the use of digital video cameras in science classes, we take a look at simple motion analysis using Movie Maker, the video editing software supplied with later versions of Microsoft Windows® operating system.
Physics Summer School 2008
This year’s Physics Summer School takes place at Glasgow University from June 23rd to June 27th 2008. Featuring lectures, lab work and visits, the event looks at ways that physics research can enhance the work that takes place in the classroom. The Summer School has always proved to be highly popular with physics teachers. It is therefore wise to book early. For more details, see the SSERC website for up-to-date information
Diji Pipettes
It is some time since SSERC has had the opportunity to review any new style of glassware. Glassware doesn’t change much and what is around in schools is likely to be largely the same as was used thirty years ago. Volumetric glassware is a good example. Here we describe a new, safer-style pipette called the diji-pipette made by Diji and compare how well it performs against traditional graduated pipettes.
Evans 2 ChemWeb
SSERC has agreed to cover the running costs of Evans²ChemWeb for the coming year. This means that all teachers & technicians in Scottish local authority schools and subscribing organisations to SSERC will be able to access Evans² Chemweb free of charge. For schools not in membership, Evans² ChemWeb will also be able to offer annual access to their site by direct application.
Health and Safety
Safe Use of Fixed Workshop Machinery
One of the first tasks of the Technician CPD Project was to undertake a survey of the provision of technical support for schools in local authorities in Scotland. It was found that not all users of fixed workshop machinery had been trained in their safe use and could not be deemed as ‘authorised’ users. One of the priorities for the project team was therefore to develop a course in the safe use of machinery.
RCD Reliability
A summary of our advice about the installation, use and testing of RCD protection.
Dangerous VDG Speed Controller
A large Griffin Van de Graaff generator (VdG), sometimes known as the Griffin Senior was brought to us for testing, the school being concerned that it could be capable of producing a dangerous spark from the dome. From the size of the dome, about 250 mm diameter, the machine is indeed theoretically capable of storing 1.0 J of energy, which could be rather dangerous, but the greater danger is the mains electrical system.
Anabaena cylindrica: Nitrogen deprivation
The activity described below makes use of this easily observed difference between normal vegetative cells and heterocysts to compare heterocyst frequency in Anaebena grown in medium of normal nitrogen levels with that of Anaebena grown in nitrogen-deficient medium.
Goodbye to you my trusted friend…
What sort of a message is this sending out about science education if pupils meet decades-old technology in our subject, then find themselves in front of a state-of-the-art LCD monitor in business studies?
Draft Experiences and Outcomes for Science (CfE)
In September 2007 everyone had their first chance to have a look at the complete new draft experiences and outcomes in Science. Back in 2004 the Curriculum Review Group made a commitment to “update, simplify and prioritise the curriculum, starting with science”. The new draft outcomes are the culmination of that promise.
Disposable gas cylinders
Suppliers and uses of disposable gas cylinders
Gamma sources and standard school experiments
Evaluation of the Safety, Working life and Effectiveness of three sources for standard experiments.
Photochemical reaction of Hydrogen with Chlorine
A striking explosion, initiated by a flash of light.
Health and Safety
Van de Graaff generator hazards
We have had another look at the safety of the Van de Graaff generator (VDG) in light of new information in electrical standards and from measurements of dome voltage.
This is what CPD is all about – Summer Schools 2007
Delegates once again rated Summer Schools in biology, chemistry, physics and primary science as highly successful. Funding was provided by the Scottish Executive through the Support for Science Education through CPD project to enable project partners1 to organise and run the events.
Get the most out of your pH meter
A helpful guide to the storage and maintenance of your pH meter(s)
Dynamics with Dongles – A Wireless Acceleration Sensor
The Vernier WDSS (Wireless Dynamics Sensor System) is a wireless sensor that can measure acceleration in 3 axes and has force and altitude sensors. It can also act as a datalogger to record data. Data transfer is wireless, via Bluetooth. The sensor is supplied with Logger Pro software and a Bluetooth dongle that plugs into the USB port of a computer.
LED source for optics
We describe the design of an array of 10 LEDs providing you with a source for many types of experiments in optics.
Wizardry of Finding a gene – battery-free
A revision of the experiment in Bulletin 221 but using a power supply rather than 3x9V batteries.
Obtaining an Absolute Measurement of Atmospheric Pressure
An activity using an inverted bottle of water and a ping pong ball to measure atmospheric pressure. Teaching Focus: Higher Physics (Pressure, Density, Boyle’s Law), Advanced Higher (Investigation)
Back to the Seventies with Ammeters & Voltmeters
We smile wryly at the cars and fashions of the 1970s and are thankful that modern digital meters have removed the necessity for the different circuits. Or have they?
Using Tapeless Video Cameras in Science Classes
Many schools and individual teachers now own digital cameras. This article covers the use of the “video clip” feature found on many of these devices. Note that some cameras are now marketed as “tapeless camcorders”, designed specifically for video work.
Ion migration – copper(II) chromate(VI)
We had some queries from technicians unable to get this demonstration to work. Furthermore we found that some younger technicians and chemistry staff had never even heard of it! It can be used in Standard Grade Chemistry to help show the existence of ions. This method of preparing the solutions and apparatus has stood the test of time.
Enzyme Specificity – or is it?
We have been receiving reports that the Intermediate 2 Biology LO3 experiment “Determination of the Specificity of Enzymes” is causing some difficulties for students. We have been investigating.
Wonderful wizardry of finding a gene
The aim of this activity is to allow pupils to carry out simple gel electrophoresis in order to simulate DNA profiling. The protocol uses mixtures of food colouring instead of DNA. On application of a voltage across the gel, the mixtures separate into bands of their individual colours. Each colour represents a gene for a ‘magic power’ so that this fun protocol allows pupils to identify the ‘magic power genes’ possessed by each of the wizards.
CPD News
Health and Safety
Radioactive sources in schools
The need for a survey to find out exactly what radioactive materials were being held by schools was recognised some time ago. While preparing to carry out such a survey, SSERC was independently asked by the Environment Agencies (SEPA and the EA) to participate in the Surplus Source Disposal Programme (SSDP), a UK-government initiative. Agreeing to this proposal, the survey has been conducted by SSERC and managed by the SSDP Board, with the support of the Scottish Executive.
Face masks – for asthmatics handling fungal spores etc.
SSERC received an enquiry recently in connection with the use of the SAPS ELISA kit for the detection of Botrytis infection in raspberries. The kit provides specific safety advice on its use. One particular safety point advises that if a user of the kit is asthmatic a face mask should be worn, as fungal spores may be released into the air during the experiment. The enquiry we received focused on what we thought would be the best disposable masks to use for asthmatic students wishing to carry out the experiment, or indeed any other experiment involving fungal spores.
p1 Conference – Towards a Science Nation
Delegates at this year’s SSERC Conference were treated to an engaging and inspiring keynote address from Professor Anne Glover, Chief Scientific Adviser for Scotland.
p2 Physics – Optics with LED sources
The conventional raybox source – a 12 V, 24 W tungsten filament lamp with vertical filament – has disadvantages. Its radiation is redder than normal sunlight and, because the light diverges in all directions, only a tiny fraction is made use of. Also the lamp is less than 15% efficient and its relatively high wattage can cause the lamphouse to get rather hot. In principle a white LED should do better. It is an efficient, very-low power source whose radiation can be highly directional and match the colour content of sunlight.
p4 Summer Schools 2007
p5 Chemistry – Traffic lights
This is a variation on the classic Blue Bottle experiment. Here the methylene blue is replaced by indigo carmine which gives a two-stage colour change..
p6 Chemistry – Equilibrium continued
In SSERC Bulletin 219 we gave details of a simple demonstration showing the effect of temperature change on the position of an equilibrium. Using the solution of cobalt chloride and additional chloride ions the colour change between blue and pink takes place over a particular, smallish temperature range with an intermediate colour of mauve.
p7 ICT – SnagIT
Using SnagIT for screen capture.
p8 Index to SSERC Bulletins 211 – 219
p12 SSERC Shop – Surplus Equipment Offers
Health and Safety
p10 Are laboratories with peripheral benching safe & fit for purpose
p11 Lampholders
We were sent a tip by Inverclyde Council on a means of preventing mains lamp-holders such as ones fitted in microscope lamps falling apart.
p1 David McGrouther
A tribute to David McGrowther, stepping down after 20 years on the SSERC board.
p2 Algal Balls – the SAPS photosynthesis kit
The use of immobilised algae and hydrogencarbonate indicator provides an engaging and interesting approach to practical work that supports the learning and teaching of photosynthesis in
the school laboratory.
p5 A Cheaper Autoclave
A special offer on Prestige autoclaves.
p6 Equilibrium and Le Chatelier
The effect of temperature on the position of an equilibrium can easily be seen by observing the colour changes of the octahedral hexaaquacobalt(II) cation and the tetrahedral tetrachlorocobaltate(II) anion as the sample is moved from a low temperature to a high temperature.
p7 Electric Writing
A fun demonstration, using the pH change associated with electrolysis to change the colour of indicators and thus enabling coloured ‘writing’ just using electricity.
p8 CPD and ISE 5-14
The launch of the TEST DVD at SETT in September was a major tangible outcome of the fifth and final consortium in the Improving Science Education 5–14 through CPD (ISE 5-14) initiative. The TEST DVD contains a wide variety of high quality exemplar and interactive CPD activities for the three science attainment outcomes.
p10 Radiant Heaters
The comparison of the rates of heating of a black body versus a silvered body can be done with proprietary apparatus . . .but why not get pupils making their own heating elements?
p11 Technicians Conference 2006
A review of the 2006 Technicians conference at Crieff Hydro.
12. Audacity again
Some further experiments with Audacity, following on from Bulletin 218.
Health and Safety
p12 Wiring Plugs
Recently we have been asked by a number of schools whether it is legal for pupils in schools to wire plugs or other mains devices in the context of learning about mains electricity. Here is our advice.
p1 Is science uncool
A look at the media landscape and the perception of science in schools.
Audacity
Audacity is open source software for recording and editing sounds and is available for Mac OS, Microsoft Windows, Linux, and other operating systems. It may be free but it is a powerful piece of software with a wide range of uses. Here we showcase some of the activities in physics that it can be used for.
p6 Supporting Scottish science education
An update on a range of CPD activities provided through the partners in the ‘Supporting Scottish Science Education through CPD’ and ‘CPD for School Science and Technology Support Staff’ initiatives.
p8 Half-life demonstrations
Radioactive decay and the half-life concept can be shown by three methods, each of which presents a negligible risk of harm. Her we give details of the methods.
Health and Safety
p1 1 Smoking machines – legal position
After the article in our last Bulletin, it has been brought to our attention that the use of smoking machines in schools is now illegal and should not be undertaken.
p4 Electric circuit model using water
Voltage is a difficult idea. This analogue was developed to help formulate the concept. The model uses the vertical dimension to represent voltage. The flow of water in that part of the model that represents the circuit is entirely in the horizontal plane. Current and flow are modelled by fluid flow and water levels respectively.
p7 The ammonium molybdate test for phophate
We have had several calls about this test failing. SO here is a (hopefully) foolproof method.
p8 Forensics
We outline here a number of practical activities which are suitable for pupil investigations covering learning outcomes in the Science component of Environmental Studies at Attainment Levels E-F.
p9 Cigarette smoking machines
Since the ban on smoking in public places in Scotland came in during March 2006 we have had several enquiries regarding this.
Health and Safety
p1 SSERC News
The arrival of the SafetyNet CD-ROM and retirements at SSERC.
p2 Disposal of electrical goods
An introduction to the new WEEE Regulations governing the disposal of waste electrical goods.
p5 Security of radioactive holdings
What the law says and how to keep your radioactive sources secure.
p6 Sourcespotters guide
A new catalogue has been written by SSERC to help identify radioactive materials held by schools.
p1 Life Begins in Fife
SSERC’s move to Pitreavie Court, Dunfermline
p2 Prism Experiments
After Newton’s famous prism experiment was voted one of the top ten most beautiful experiments in science, we had to retry it and let you know what we found. In doing so, we discovered LSD.
p6 Experimenting with LSD and a Prism
Experimenting with LSD and a prism. Novel ways of recombining colours to get white light and making a brilliant, rainbow-coloured arc.
p7 Oscillating Reaction
An introduction to the oscillation Briggs-Rauscher reaction.
p8 Invisible Writing
A recipe for invisible ink that used household chemicals and has the advantage over commonly touted versions in theat the ‘ink’ really is invisible.
p9 Chemiluminescence
A simple chmiluminescent fountain using luminol
p10 Buchanan filter
A guide to the Buchanan filter as an aid to filtering protoplasts.
p11 Environmental Measurement
A market survey of inexpensive ‘Eco-meters’, measuring light, temperature and humidity.
Health and Safety
p12 Revised Lab Safety Guide
The launch of the latest (11th) edition of the ASE’s invaluable ‘Safeguards in the Science Laboratory’.
P1-4 Life begins?
SSERC’s 40th birthday.
P4 Contacts
Contacts at SSERC and other CPD projects.
P5 Annual conference and AGM
Programme and application form
P6 Support materials for teachers and technicians
SafetyNet CD coming soon; ISE Exemplar materials CD; Formative Assessment in Science CD; TSEC Strategies for Teachers of 5-14 Science
P8-9 Thionin – Light & Chemical Energy Demonstration
A good demonstration of a light-sensitive solution.
p10-12 Cabomba – A good alternative to Elodea
A new water plant that offers a more reliable subject for photosynthesis investigations.
Health and Safety
P6 Support materials for teachers and technicians
SafetyNet CD coming soon; ISE Exemplar materials CD; Formative Assessment in Science CD; TSEC Strategies for Teachers of 5-14 Science
P7-8 Radioactive news
More lost sources; IRR review; Radioactivity safety files; No more NRPB; Disposal
P1 CPD Grant Awards
Grants to support CPD – what are our plans?
P2 Online discussion forum for technicians
The launch of an online discussion forum for school and college technicians
Blades biological and Carolina; NGN vacuum pumps
P6 Science investigations with a PVA polymer
An introduction to investigations that can be carried out with PVA slime.
P8 Spark discharge apparatus
A review of the Harris Spark Discharge Apparatus.
P9 News
MiSAC Matters: Salters’ Biology Launch; HMIe’s ‘Improving Achievement’ reportNational Science Learning Centre
P10 Fuel cell car and experiment kit
A review of the Thakes & Kosmos fuel cell powered car kit.
P11 – 12
Summer schools: a guide to the upcoming Biology, Chemistry and Physics summer schools.
Health and Safety
P3 A safer Biuret reagent
A modified version of the classic test that is much safer to use.
P3-5 Radiation News
Legal requirement for an RPA and how SSERC can help; stock checks; lost sources
School rebuilding/closure; receiving hospitals; sources from Pasco
Disposals
P5 Data projectors and whiteboards
Are these devices a risk to eyesight?
A Risk Assessment Special
1 Essential Tools
A graphic showing some of the useful resources that will help.
2-6 Assessing Risks
A guide to the risk-assessment process
6 “Reasonably Practicable”
A definition and discussion of this important Health and Safety term.
7-8 Not proven
A discussion of a recent HSE prosecution after an accident in a chemistry lesson, in England.
8-9 DSEAR
Further information in these regulations affecting work with flammables as announced in Bulletin 2011.
9 Using computers safely
A summary of SSERC’s upcoming guidance.
10-12 Investigating compost formation
A description of procedures on which to base a series of investigations on biodegradation and compost formation.
12 Risk assessment for compost formation
An exemplar risk assessment using our recommended method.
An exemplar risk assessment using our recommended method.
1 Editorial
It’s a’ geek tae me! – A call for more plain English in technical writing.
2 Safety: Accident with a pinhole Camera
Accident with an S1 girl using a pinhole camera and a candle. What went wrong and how to prevent it.
3: Safety: Hero’s engine explosion
A report on an explosion of a glass Hero’s engine.
3 Safety: Griffin paper electrophoresis kit
a trial of this apparatus which turns out to have dangerous , unshrouded sockets.
4 Chemistry Summer School
Review of the successful Chemistry Summer School at Edinburgh University.
5 ISE 5-14 – Planning Spreadsheet
A planning spreadsheet to help busy teachers. Available for download from the SSERC website.
6-8 Chemistry: Crystal growth and Liesegang rings
A look at this fascinating area of chemistry with some tips and tricks for getting the best results.
8 Physics: S1/S2 electronics
A review of the MFA & JJM Angus Board
9-10 Physics: Sodium absorption spectrum with a while lumiled LED source
The D lines of the sodium absorption spectrum can be displayed reliably and easily with the aid of a high-power, white-light LED source such that the demonstration can be carried out in daylight.
11 Biology: Let’s Count
Using haemocytometers to count cells
12 SSERC AGM / Open courses
1 & 12 Editorial
Educational organisation, a menagerial (sic) approach
2-5 Safety guidance on radioactivity
SSERC has written a set of papers on different aspects of health and safety guidance regarding working with radioactive materials.
6 Recirculatory fume cupboards
An overview of recirculatory fume cupboards and their effectiveness.
8 SCOTS Online
Scottish Chemistry Online Teachers’ Service (Scots website) is launched
8 Gas Cartridge air rifles
A change in legislation and how to adapt.
9 Fixed wiring colours have changed
A guide to the change of colours in wiring of electrical appliances and how classrooms might be affected.
9 DSEAR
An introduction to the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (2002)
10 Microbiology & biotechnology at levels E & F
Revision of the guidelines and some ideas for activities that can enhance the teaching of this in the classroom.
12 Safety
Enzyme investigation using catalase; Socket outlet testers
1 Editorial
Science Sux – An article about the public perception of science and science teaching and what we can do to improve matters.
2 News & comment
SSAC’s vision for science; Additional finding from Scottish Executive; Stuart Farmer’s study of the resourcing of physics departments.
3 Safety responsibilities and management
Safety in practical classes should be left to the experts to manage.
3-5 Wood dust and health surveillance
An explanation of health surveillance (what it is and when it is required) relating to staff being exposed to dust from woodworking.
6 Flicker and photo sensitive epilepsy
A small section of the population is susceptible to epileptic fits being brought on by flickering lights. Some control measures are suggested.
7-10 Colour mixing
Demonstrations of colour mixing can be vastly improved by replacing traditional illumination with new powerful LEDs called lumileds.
10 Auroral displays
After recent impressive aurora displays, we offer some tips to observe the next one.
11-12 Blue-bottle redox reactions
Some lower hazard variations of this classic demonstration that do not require corrosive sodium hydroxide.
Erratum – In Table 1 in the ‘small scale’ column, the volume of 0.1M copper)II) sulphate used should read 3 cm3 and not 12 cm3
12 Magical mushrooms
How to grow oyster mushrooms in the classroom
13 Index to Bulletins 201-210
16 Trade News
Soda lime; Microwave & UHF apparatus; Film graticule strip; Pestles; Freshford gas regulator servicing; Electronic projects from Rapid; Visual accelerometer.
1 Editorial: Pupils and teachers reunited
2 News & comment
Acting Director, ISES News, New Chemistry Project, Summer Schools, SAPS 5-14 resources, ISE 5-14 progress report, Part of SAPS moves, Congratulations!
3 Safety Notes
Chemicals list added to ASE website, Bacterial transformation kit, Accident report (magnesium/silver nitrate)
4 Electrical isolation and cut-off
Electrical services to practical work areas including technical workshops and science labs should be fitted with localised switching for isolation and emergency cut-off.
6 Never mind the gas, get a microwave
Chemists use microwave heating to speed up reactions, boost yields and make ‘awkward’ reactions possible. An educational application of such techniques is described and evaluated.
7 Enzyme mediated synthesis
A trialled protocol, showing the action of phosphorylase (from potato) on glucose-1-phosphate, is described.
8 Come fly with me – getting the drop on Drosophila
Some updated tips are provided on the husbandry of the fruit fly, Drosophila. Advice is given on suitable anaesthetics, the handling of live flies and on appropriate, acceptable techniques for euthanasia.
9 Dormant Protist kit
A brief review of a kit from the supplier Sciento which simplifies the culturing of protozoa in schools.
10 PIC and place arm
Extensions of the control technology application suggested in earlier articles are provided. In particular, ways to add an interface, pcb kit and software routines to enhance applications of the inexpensive Robot Arm kit, reviewed in Bulletin 206, are indicated.
12 Tips on using the ‘Dazzle’ TV photo show
Tips are given on using the brilliant ‘Dazzle’ digital card reader. This is an inexpensive system which permits viewing of digital photographs with or without a computer.
12 Technicians’News
ASE, DfES and RS report, Lab design and prep room survey, News from STAG.
13 Development for updating school chemistry
Don Sutherland, PT Chemistry at Deans Community High School, Livingstone, has recently been appointed as a part-time Development Officer to support a new Scottish-based project intended to update and enliven school chemistry. We report here on the rationale for and aims of DUSC>
14 Substitutes for peanuts
An increasing incidence of serious allergic reactions to peanuts (and other nuts) has led to a search for suitable substitutes for use in common school practical activities. Some results of an evaluation of such substitutes, employed for simple calorimetry, are reported.
15 Algal cells and photosynthesis
An interesting an novel set of ideas for investigating photosynthesis from SAPS – immobilised algae.
16 News, Trade News
Science 2020 report, SSERC AGM, iButton Datalogger and PIC, PASCO serial to USB adaptor, Erratum WPA colorimeter.
1 Editorial
2 News & comment
Science 2020, Science Strategy Funding, Stirling Biology Meeting, IOP Stirling Meeting, Human Genome Chemistry, DNA Anniversary, More (Roger) Frost on datalogging.
3 UV source: Model risk assessment
A model risk assessment for using small, hand held UV lamps.
4 Electrical safety: Working with HT supplies
An HT power supply is capable of delivering a fatal shock. Special precautions are required to prevent harm.
7 UV lightbox
We describe the design and construction of an ultraviolet lightbox allowing children to observe fluorescence in reasonable safety.
8 WPA colorimeter
The recently introduced Colourwave colorimeter from WPA (model CO7500) passes our tests with flying colours.
9 Uses of capacitors: the photographic flash
This note offers corrections to the information and instructions, and guidance on how the activity can be done safely.
10 Composition of inspired and expired air
A simple experiment to investigate the amounts of oxygen and carbon dioxide in inspired (i.e. atmospheric) air is described in this article.
12 Constant humidity solutions
Methods for setting the relative humidity of air, required in SAPS ‘ELISA’ and Botrytis protocol, and other applications.
13 Finding Planck’s constant with LEDs
A value for Planck’s constant can be found by plotting the forward voltage across a series of LEDs versus the frequency of radiation. Though simple in execution, the method is flawed.
15 Technical Tips
Yeast Glucose Agar, Bacto-peptone, Rapid 318 fuse marking, Multimeters fusing, HT transmission line models
16 Trade News
New from DJB, CAX 2000 Teltron tubes, Smart UV products, PASCO energy transfer apparatus, PASCO USB/serial converter, Chladni’s plates’ omission.
1 Editorial
2 News & comment
International Science Conference, IoP Congress 2003, Institute of Biology Events, Chemistry Teachers’ Day, Summer schools, ASE Scotland – Annual Meeting, PPP out-takes
3 Health effects of low-level radiation
The mainstream view that risk falls roughly in a linear fashion with dose is under attack from some who maintain that there is a threshold below which radiation is harmless, or even beneficial, and from other groups asserting that very low doses are extraordinarily dangerous.
7 HSE guidance on electrical testing
The HSE have recently published two 4-page information sheets and a 14-page booklet all on safety in electrical testing. They would be relevant to anyone working in or operating a technician repair centre, or in any school where electrical equipment was repaired or tested.
8 PIC & LCD display
Messages can easily be produced on liquid crystal displays driven by PIC controllers.
9 Bumping during the preparation of potassium trioxalatoferrate(III)
Some improvements are recommended to the method of preparing potassium trioxalatoferrate(III) (Advanced Higher Chemistry PPA, Unit 1, PPA 1)
10 Anodising again
Some alternative dyes
10 Signals from a radio transmitter
If a single turn of wire short circuits the low impedance output of a power signal generator tuned to produce 100 kHz, or thereabouts, then it is possible to generate and transmit an RF signal.
11 Laser equipment offer
Five laser diode modules and photometers from the Physics Department of Heriot Watt University are on offer for long-term loan to schools.
12 Portable radiation detectors
This trade review tells you what’s on the market and the sorts of radiation hotspots to search for in your school environment. Are portable radiation detectors worth having? That’s for you to judge.
13 New ICT packages
Simple Data Handling, LogIT products, PASCO products,
14 Botanical and ecological fieldwork – new Floras
The several new Floras that have recently been published provide invaluable aids to fieldwork.
15 Phenomenology
An example of the science of phenomena with Chladni’s plate.
16 Trade News
Chladni’s plates, Harris and Unilab repairs, Middlesex University, White phosphorus, Leybold Didactic
1 Editorial
2 News & comment
ASE Scotland programme, ISE 5-14 programme, Accounts Commission on PPP, HSE and risk management, Bob (Kibble) finds use for comb
3 Electrical equipment testing
The IEE have revised their code of practice for the in-service inspection and testing of electrical equipment.
4 Superwool 607
A recently developed ceramic fibre – Superwool 607 – has been shown to be free of carcinogenic properties. Tests in our laboratory show that this material, both in the form of wool and paper, is suitable for a wide range of techniques for heating metals and their oxides, etc. Current ceramic fibre paper and wools should be substituted with Superwool products when they become available to schools.
7 CE marking and product safety
There is much confusion on CE marking. Its purpose is to facilitate the free movement of goods within the EU. It is a symbol for trade and traders. Strictly speaking, it is not a quality or safety mark for consumers.
7 Radford Labpacks
These should now be disposed of
7 Liquid nitrogen transport
An update to the advice originally given in Bulletin 190.
7 Traffic light LEDs
One of the staple projects in school technology is making a set of model traffic lights out of LEDs controlled by digital logic. This technology has moved on now from the design bench to the street, where we find those stunningly luminous and brilliantly coloured LED traffic light signals.
8 Microscope specifications
The key principles underpinning SSERC’s specifications for educational microscopes are explained. Parts of these notes may be of some application in Scottish courses which require basic knowledge of the effective use of an optical microscope. The SSERC specifications are summarised.
10 Control at S1/S2 with small models and a PIC
Control is one of the elements generally missing from 5-14 in primary schools but could and should be addressed at S1/S2. With progression to Standard Grade and Intermediate levels in mind we offer the following ideas which we believe are fun, informative and inexpensive
12 Buffers
During recent trials of pH meters, we inadvertently discovered that the pH 12 buffer solution we had purchased from Scientific and Chemical Supplies Ltd (SCS) was outwith specification. We measured the pH of the solution with six different meters and obtained consistently readings of 10.5.
13 Power supplies
Since we last issued test reports on power supplies in 1996-7, there have been many product changes. This short report looks at three basic items: two from Economatics and one from STE.
14 LED array
We describe the construction with LEDs of an array of optical radiation sources spanning the entire visible spectrum. Some uses are provided.
15 Experimenting with UV LEDs
Because a LED is a point source, UV LEDs can be used quite easily in optical experiments. By detecting the radiation with fluorescence, the wave nature can be demonstrated and wavelength can be measured with precision.
16 Trade News
Technical tip – Popping Alba files into Excel, Solar science set, Alpha boards, Glasgow physics website.
1 Editorial
2 News & comment
More money for science, Institute for science education, SCBE appoints staff, Science 5-14 news, RSE/SEELLD Fellowships
3 Gas cylinders and regulators
Both of these components must, by law, be examined regularly. We explain what you need to do.
4 Van de Graaff shocks
Except for persons with certain medical conditions, there is little risk of harm from an electric shock from a Van de Graaf generator whose dome does not exceed 25cm. Two cases of shock are analysed – a direct spark to the body from a charged dome and an unintended discharge of a charged person. The first of these leads to a limit for maximum dome size. The article finishes with guidance on how to run the machine safely.
6 Brady’s reagent
This Advanced Higher Chemistry prescribed practical activity (PPA) includes a recipe and safety information for Brady’s reagent
7 Texas datalogger
This is an outline review of the Texas Instruments calculator-based datalogger CBL 2 wherein its ease of use, functionality and speed are compared with computer-based instruments.
9 Graphical Analysis
The new version of Vernier’s software offers powerful computer graphing facilities. Even so, it is simple to use and is very reasonably priced. We recommend it, strongly.
10 Anodising aluminium
Advice is given on how to carry out this chemistry practical.
11 Microbiology resources
A new edition of the Code of Practice on Safety in Microbiology
12 Microscope illumination
A simple device – a “turbid cube” – is described which may be used to demonstrate the proper use of a microscope condenser and iris diaphragm.
13 Constant spring motor
This interesting device can be used to apply a constant force on a dynamics cart.
14 Laser diode modules
The specifications of laser diode modules continue to improve, yet they drop in price. This is good news for customers. Here is a review of a selection of Class 2 devices.
15 UV LEDs
UV LEDs were recently invented and have begun to be more widely available. We bought in a few and report here on what we found.
16 Trade news
Oscilloscope offer, Revolution Education, Euromicrovision, Jeulin VTT, Contact lens retraction
1 Editorial
2 News & comment
Funding announcement, SSERC on the move – again, Science year, SESEF launch, Diary dates
3 Laser attack
We continue to get several reports a year about attacks with laser pointers. There is generally no risk of direct harm to the eye from this misuse but it can cause distress and anxiety. This article provides information about the effects and the extent of the risk.
4 Safety tips
Transformation Kit, Disinfectants, COSHH
5 Strain gauges
Some information to support the Higher Physics Student Material on the strain gauge.
5 Alpha Radio Receiver
Unilab’s Alpha radio receiver board.
6 Some PlC products from Revolution
A wide range of new educational products is being devised by Revolution Education Limited. Many of these products are based on inexpensive, digital microcontrollers, sometimes known as PICs. Most have applications in technology education but some would be of use in science.
7 Contact lens warning
A warning about risks from electrical sparking or welding and contact lenses.
Bulletin 205 says – We now understand that this story is a myth and apologize for any alarm it may have caused.
8 Shoogled – nae stirred
We revisit and old timer – the ‘Magic Bottle’ (Blue Bottle) demonstration which is suggested for use as part of an introduction to redox reactions.
8 The Thiele tube
We evaluate an alternative, low cost, form of melting point apparatus – the Thiele tube.
10 Biotech Summer School
A short report in the first in a series of follow-up symposia for the highly successful Summer Schools.
10 Resource notes
SEPA’s website now has a schools section
11 Modifications of Benedict’s and Fehling’s Reagents
Benedict’s reagent has been reported, falsely, as a reliable test for alkanals. Some relevant modifications of Benedict’s and Fehling’s reagents are described and discussed in terms of efficacy and safety.
12 News & comment
Philip Harris and Unilab – what’s afoot? Alpha switched display, Free physics simulations, New DJB Alba products, Sparklets cartridges, Rollo dynamics trolley, Polymer news, Safety flash – accident involving a motor
1 Editorial
2 News & comment
Back of envelope stuff (calculations about equipment provision), Multimedia report, Grovels, various (apologies for website issues and double-printing of a graph in the previous bulletin)
3 LED safety
A new report has concluded that ultrabright LEDs do not pose a retinal hazard
3 Agar Agony Aunt
Adjusting the pH of agar growth media
4 Equipment funding survey
A typical physics department gets about seven times less than it needs to spend on equipment finds Stuart Farmer, PT Physics, Robert Gordon’s College, in his survey into the resourcing of Physics departments in Scottish secondary schools.
9 Staining bacterial endospores
Recent concern and resultant news coverage on the zoonosis known as Anthrax (Bacillus anthracis) provide an immediate and serious context for discussion on the occurrence and nature of bacterial endospores. A technique is described for staining the endospores of Bacillus subtilis. The practical work provides both an introduction to, and a backdrop for, discussion on the nature of resistant and long-lived bacterial spores.
10 Hazardous Chemicals Manual – new edition
A new edition of the CD-ROM version of the SSERC publication “Hazardous Chemicals – a manual for science education” is nearing completion. Amendments and additions are described and the additional features of the new version summarised.
11 Pressure Systems
A guide to the regulations on testing of pressure systems.
12 News, tips and No Comment
Dataloggers (DCP Developments, djb microtech), Science Summer Schools, Phosphate/citrate buffer recipe, Lactopropionic orcein,
1 Editorial
2 News
One day’industrial’ courses, Biotech consortium launch, SSERC Website, Summer schools, Science Centres, SSERC AGM
3 Safety
3M OHPs and asbestos, New microbiology code of practice, CASE Materials
4 Survey on ICT usage in Secondary Science
This article is based, with permission, on a presentation prepared by John Sharkey, Science Adviser, Western Isles Islands Council, on behalf of the Scottish Science Advisory Group.
8 Gloves
The HSE has recently published a leaflet ‘Selecting protective gloves for work with chemicals’.
9 Conducting polymers
Organic polymers with semi-conducting properties are described together with methods suitable for laboratory scale preparations of some examples.
11 Air-free small scale reduction
An alternative method, not requiring a Bunsen valve, is suggested to provide air-free atmospheres for the reduction of transition metal salts.
12 Galileo’s inclined plane experiment
On getting a pattern of odd integer numbers while experimenting with a rolling ball on an inclined plane Galileo realised that the laws of nature are universal. With the help of new technology, this historical experiment is now feasible in a school lab.
14 Two simple aids for microbiology
Designs for a Petri dish carrier and a Universal or McCartriey bottle holder are described.
15 Water rockets: Rokit type
An appraisal of the hazards of this popular rocket indicate that there is a slight risk of an impact injury, but that other risks are negligible.
16 Trade News
Marlec Engineering, Novara plc, NCBE ‘Transformer Protocol’ kit, Zippette dispensers, Barfoed’s reagent, Catalase,
1 Editorial
2 News & comment
New cloots!, same fare!, Equipment lists, Historical budget provision, SSERC Website, HMI sciences report, Summer schools, Enlist! Your country needs you!
3 Electrical accident
An analysis of a recent incident where a teacher received an electrical shock from a piece of equipment. We look at causes and possible remedies.
4 Prosecution
Details of a successful prosecution of a school by the HSE for an incident in a school technology workshop.
4 3M OHPs emitting asbestos
A report on one model of OHP that should have been recalled for modification in 1984! IT seems not all were.
4 Unilab product recall
A recall of Unilab mains powered products between August 1999 and October 2000
5 Design and Technology code of practice
The British Standard for design and technology in schools has been revised.
5 Essential science safety references
A new edition of the ASE’s Topics in Safety.
6 DiVA spectro photometer
The computer-based instrument from Nicholl Education has applications across the sciences.
7 Laser radiation sensor
This sensor is based on a planar photodiode whose surface area is sufficiently large to accommodate all the radiation within a laser beam.
7 Polarisation experiments
Because the radiation from a laser diode is plane polarised with the polarisation vector being in stable alignment, these devices are excellent sources for polarisation experiments.
8 Photoelectric effect kits
The photoelectric effect should be introduced by reviewing the experimental evidence, where possible from classroom experiments. Inferences which can thereafter be drawn lead into the quantisation of radiation and photon concepts. A test report on the available kits is presented here.
10 Quantitative determination of reducing sugars with Benedict’s solution
The principle of the method is that of running the sugar solution of unknown concentration from a burette into a known quantity of boiling Benedict’s solution until the copper(II) (blue colour) is reduced to colourless copper(I) by the sugar.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) News and comment
See me! See DTP – nae PC, Dates for diary, Spam Emails, Pearls before swine, SQA debacle, Bulletin back issues
5(3) Safety Notes
HSE update on MDF. Replacement for BS 5304, Health and Safety in D&T Health and safety law posters.
6(4) Balance review
Recently SSERC tested nine commercially available balances, all of which are aimed at the school and college market. This article reports the findings of that test programme. Best buys are provisionally indicated.
15(13) More safety notes
Safety sources for technology, Prosecution after technology incident, Active braking and workshop machinery, Pressure systems Regulations.
17(15) A recipe for CPD
Notes from a Scottish Biotechnology Summer School
18(16) Gas pressure apparatus
Test reports and experimental details on various new gas pressure apparatus.
27(25) Safety Notes
Leaflet for governors, school boards and heads, Work experience – organiser’s guide,
Mobile ‘phones safety, Safe use of gas cylinders
28(26) Trade News
Glass gas syringes, 3-way stopcocks, DJB microtech
29(27) Equipment offers.
32(30) Endpieces
Last of the line (Final Bulletin in this format), Emerging E-groups, Change on the way?
33(31) Index, Bulletins 190 to 200
Front cover illustration Artist’s impression – aerial view of the Glasgow Science Centre complex with IMAX cinema and revolving tower Pacific Quay, Glasgow. IMAX open now, Science Centre due to open Spring 2001.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) News and comment
Just one more to go – Penultimate bulletin issue in present format, More on the web, No more NOFin’ (New Opportunities Fund) for now, ‘Sensation’ – a new Science Centre in Dundee, Other science centres
4(2) SSERC Website
Changes and updates
5(3) Safety Notes Solder flux fume control
Until the results from some Health and Safety Executive (HSE) research programmes are published and guidance is issued by the HSE, it may be prudent to hang fire on investing on local exhaust ventilation (LEV) equipment for solder fume control.
6(4) lonising Radiations Regulations 1999
A major revision of these Regulations, first introduced in 1985, has taken place. The changes of significance to schools and colleges are reported.
7(5) Protactinium generator
Most generators will by now have reached the end of their recommended working life. Harris generators may be used, subject to provisions, for a few more years. School-made generators should be rebottled. (The advice in this article is out of date. School-made protactinium generators are no longer sanctioned by SSERC)
8(6) False nails – fire hazards in the lab?
Summary of an article in the Journal of Chemical Education.
9(7) Revised Management Regulations
Guidance for employers on the revisions to these regulations.
9(7) Educational use of E.coIi
Time to clarify the current position on the educational applications of this organism.
10(8) Thermistor circuits with a PC
Adaptations to an earlier application of thermistors with Acorn BBC computer equipment are described. Circuitry for detecting minor changes in human skin temperature is modified to allow the use of devices interfaced with PC platforms.
11(9) Adapting Unilab light gates for a PASCO Interface
How to modify Unilab light gates for use with PASCO devices.
12(10) Data Studio – software review
Data Studio is the first of a new generation of software for use in data logging and analysis. It sets a very high standard for graphical presentation and analytical tools, which perhaps no rival package currently can emulate. Whilst most of the program is intuitive in operation, parts of it are not. Is this an Achilles heel, bringing condemnation on a package which, in the main, is delightfully simple with which to work?
14(12) Bioreactors – an update
Ongoing activity, part of the SAPS Scotland Biotechnology Education Project, is reported. An overview of the aims of this initiative and its curricular contexts is provided and some possibilities for the future indicated.
20(18) Methods and apparatus for showing Boyle’s law.
Different apparatus setups for demonstrating Boyle’s Law.
24(22) Microscale Vacuum Apparatus
New apparatus comprising a small bell jar and vacuum pump is reviewed. The report includes a description of using the apparatus to measure the density of air and to show Boyle’s law.
28(26) Enzymes — Hazards and Labelling
How to interpret MSDS for enzymes.
29(27) Science Strategy Report
A brief summary of the report.
30(28) Pressure and depth in fluids
A revision of the HSDU version for showing the dependence of fluid pressurewith depth and recommendations on suitable sensors.
31(29) Unilab I 3 V Stepped Power Supply
Review and troubleshooting.
32(30) Signal generators and capacitative loads
Troubleshooting the issue.
33(31) Diffraction gratings – Don’t believe what it says
Issues with inaccuracies regarding the number of lines per inch.
34(32) Slime – What’s that?
A brief description of PVA slime and why you might want to use it.
35(33) Modern apprenticeships for laboratory technicians in education
36(34) Equipment offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Announcement – SSERC gets Approved Training Provider status, Highly rated, SAPS secondee, Summer school, ASE Scotland annual meeting
4(2) Editorial That old feng shui factor
5(3) ICT needs and science subjects
A paper from the Higher Still Development Unit is introduced and reprinted.
7(5) ICT in the Sciences
SSERC is the lead body in a Scottish Science Consortium which has gained Approved Training Provider status for ICT training in secondary science subjects in Scotland. An overview of the New Opportunities Fund scheme is provided and SSERC’s role and intentions within those arrangements are outlined.
8(6) Gas law experiments: Part 2
Methods and apparatus for showing the pressure-temperature law.
15(13) Practical work with ICT
When, and why, might the use of ICT in practical work be appropriate?
17(15) BASIC Stamp: Part 3
Further information is provided on ongoing work at Arbroath High School in which a peripheral interface controller is used for teaching control technologies.
22(20) Colorimeter review
Specifications, test procedures and results are summarised for colorimeters from Griffin, Philip Harris and WPA with a ‘best buy’ suggested.
30(28) Higher Physics: Electricity: Activity 21
A revised method for showing the inverting amplifier used to control a heavy load.
31(29) Odds and ends
An eclectic list of recently published resources and newish apparatus, which may be of interest. – Practical fermentation, Other biotechnology ‘stuff, Microscale Vacuum Apparatus, Stomp Rocket, DIVA Digital Spectrometer Solar Hydrogen Technology Kit
32(30) Equipment offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Nowt tae dae wi’ us!, Litarecy – an uphil urben strugle?, Scottish EA Membership, Summer Schools 2000, Diary dates
4(2) Opinion Bah millenium (hum) bug!
5(3) Interpreting safety advice
How to understand Manufacturer’s Safety Data Sheets (msds)
6(4) Using gloves
There seems to have been some misunderstanding or misinterpretation of occasional advice to wear protective gloves for certain operations. We address the issue.
7(5) New Courses
Safety in microbiology, PlC Course
8(6) Peripheral Interface Controllers – PICs
Kits with PlC control chips of application in Scottish school curricula are reviewed. Some potentially rewarding, educational applications are outlined.
12(10) PICs again – The BASIC Stamp
Applications of the BASIC Stamp to technology courses in the earlier secondary years are outlined.
13(11) Comment – ICT Issues
14(12) News and announcements
SSERC Conference, New Frontiers in Science, School and University Links
15(13) Chemistry Equipment List
In the spirit of this apparent age of ICT dominance, we have updated and upgraded our Chemistry Equipment List to a set of fully functional spreadsheets.
16(14) Biology Notes Higher Still – hints and tips
Test papers for water, humidity etc., Finger maze designs, Anaesthetismg Drosophila, Plant pathology – Koch’s postulates
18(16) Colorimetry and Higher Still
An account of selected applications of a colorimeter in biology practicals included in the Higher Still Support Materials
21(19) Safety Notes
New fire precautions regulations, Hydrogen-oxygen explosions, New safety management standard 19
22(20)Gas law experiments: Part 1
A review of methods for showing the ideal gas laws V – p, V – Tand p – T, including test reports on gas law apparatus. There is a comparison of the relative efficacies of methods with and without computers. The review will be published in two or three parts. This first part looks at ways of showing Charles’ Law.
30(28) Trade news
Air Compressors, Microscope servicing
30(28) Sodium flames – again
31(29) Robot Wars – gearboxes
A note on recent evaluations of a number of inexpensive gearboxes, all under £5.00, which could be incorporated into the design of a robot buggy.
32(30) Equipment offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
SSERCyber-swans, SSERC News – membership etc, New appointment (Fred Young)
4(2) Opinion
IT butters no turnips?
5(3) Safety Notes
Extension leads, Lasers, more misuse, ‘Six-pack’ regulation changes
6(4) SSERCNet – ICT Development News
Centre staff have had to cope recently with major changes in SSERC’s information and communications technology. These developments are already leading to new products and have potential for improving SSERC services. Some of that recent development work is reviewed and illustrated. Further possibilities for the future are outlined.
11(9) SSAG Advisory Notes – ICT in Science Education
An article developed from a paper originally drawn up by a working party of the Scottish Science Advisory Group (SSAG).
15(13) Simple science surfer’s guide
One of several useful handouts picked up at the ASE Conference “ICT and Science Education’ (which preceded the 1999 UK Annual Meeting) was a single piece of A4 entitled : ‘Topical Tips – Using the Internet’. We have adapted this for our own use here in the Centre.
16(14) Projectile launcher
Physics is fun! Or it certainly should be with apparatus like this. Once you have aimed, it can reliably lob projectiles into a coffee cup at five metres.
21(19) New pupil oscilloscope
We review a “user friendly” dual trace oscilloscope recently designed for schools by Waugh Instruments.
24(22) Problems with Benedict’s reagent
Negative or unclear results with the use of this, and similar reagents, for the reduction of carbonyl compounds, are reported and discussed.
27(25) Biological bits
New development officer (Kath Crawford), Sixth year tips- effects of lead, ideas for projects.
28(26) Solder flux fume
Because the Health and Safety Commission (HSC) has set a maximum exposure limit for rosin based solder flux fume, any exposure must be reduced to as low a level as practicable. Substituting a rosin-free solder may be the best option.
32(30) MOSFETs, diodes and photodiodes
A teaching order with the Edinburgh University / Motorola chips and JJM Project Board overlays is described.
35(33) PASCO interfaces and the iMac
36(34) Safety Notes
Health and safety policies, Health and safety policies, Be safe! reprinted, again, Clear phenolic disinfectants
38(36) A simple light gate
Designing a light gate is usually far from simple. A complex circuit design may well be preferable to the primitive one given here for operation with Unilab’s Motion QED.
39(37) Trade News – Irwin Desman in receivership
40(37) Equipment Offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Christmas closure, Evaluation draw, Interactive HazMan is here, Reminder – ASE meeting, STOP PRESS – New SSERC Web Site
4(2) Comment
More beachcombings, More firsts, IT matters too
5(3) Accidents
Criteria for deciding when to report an injury under RIDDOR are explained in the following safety note.
7(5) Violence in education
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recently has published an updated version of its guidance on this subject
7(5) Oxy-fuel gas equipment
The British Compressed Gases Association (BCGA) have revised their Code of Practice
7(5) Fume cupboard advice revised
Design Note 29 has recently been extensively revised by the Architects and Buildings Branch of the Department for Education and Employment (DfEE) and re-issued as Building Bulletin 88
8(6) Nicholl Conductivity Bars
This new product comprises of a set of four similar bars of different metals with attached thermochromic strips for showing the conduction of heat.
10(8) Nicholl Radiant Heat Source
This is a newly designed radiant heater which operates off the mains. Our tests show that it is electrically safe. An ancillary kit of radiation absorption discs is also reported on.
12(10) Harris System SM: Part II:
Comprising of a large range of SensorMeters, portable datalogger and software, the system may be used for measurement, data capture and analysis. In Part I (Bulletin 194) were reviewed the Temperature and Radioactive Count Rate sensors as components of that overall system. This part of our review examines the conductivity and pH sensors and how System SM performs within those contexts.
17(15) Inexpensive pH measurement – the Turtle from Hanna
We review this fun and inexpensive but effective device.
18(16) Data capture and processing
The following examples illustrate the different methods of data capture and various aspects of processing the results using Datadisc Pro software.
18(16) PKa determination for ethanoic acid by half neutralisation method
20(18) Onsager plots for strong & weak acids
22(20) Rate law of hydrolysis of 2-bromo-2-methylpropane
22(20) Pupil Investigations for chemistry
24(22) Microcentrifuge applications, Hill reaction
A demonstration of the Hill reaction with isolated chloroplasts makes use of a prototype microcentrifuge designed for the educational market.
26(24) Thermal conductivity of gases experiments
There are few, simple experiments showing that air is a poor conductor of heat. Most effects are confused by convection and other factors. Here we report on four experiments that may be suitable in general science courses. Three of these are pupil experiments; the fourth is a demonstration.
27(25) Coke can pan experiment
28(26) PET bottle experiment
30(28) Gaede’s water vapour insulation experiment
32(30) Leidenfrost effect
33(31) Electrical safety:
DB2000 electrical service system, Griffin powerpack 300, Netzgerat, Accidents with Mac 4400s
34(32) Van de Graaff generator problems
We report on some issues with Griffin models and suggest a company that will repair them.
35(33) Safety Matters
Exposure to ultrasound, Carbon dioxide cylinder accident, lonising Radiations Regulations revision, HSE and SEPA guidance, More COSHH amendments.
37(35) Machinery safety, BS 5304 declared obsolete
Although BS 5304 will still be available, it no longer applies to today’s new machinery.
38(36) News & Resources
Scottish technicians’ group, Field Studies : New Code of Practice, Chemistry teachers’ meeting, Biology education events, SAPS update, Resources for microbiology, Changes to DNA kit, Higher Still Sciences : R.I.S.E. On-line booksales.
40(38) Trade news
Specialist waste disposal, Fridges for flammables, Kyowa microscope spares, Microscope servicing, Balances – servicing and repairs
41( 39) Oscilloscopes
A sale by ballot of second hand, dual trace oscilloscopes is announced.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Tae a moose Anon. – efter Rabble Burns
4(2) Introduction
Screivins in the leid, Questionnaires – thanks! Equipment matters
5(3) News and Comment
New biotechnology initiative, Phrases for appraisers, Diary dates, No comment
6(4) Microorganisms for investigations in schools and colleges
Revised listings of suitable micro-organisms to use.
1(9) Harris System SM
Comprising of a large range of SensorMeters, portable datalogger and software, the system may be used for measurement, data capture and analysis. This review looks at the Temperature and Radioactive Count Rate sensors and how System SM performs within those contexts.
16(14) Analysing graphs
With many data capture systems, there is a mathematical modelling facility letting you fit a standard curve to a set of data. An example is discussed.
18(16) Antibody-antigen reaction
A protocol included as part of kit developed at the Scottish Antibody Production Unit (SAPU) is described. The procedure provides a useful illustrative students’ practical on the role of antigens in inducing antibody production and the nature of antibody/antigen reactions.
22(20) Laboratory power supply
The Irwin Central Power Source has been designed to supply a whole laboratory with a low voltage supply.
24(22) Laboratory power supplies : portable units versus single source
A look at the wider matter of replacing lots of small, portable, power supplies with a central laboratory source.
25(23) Micro-centrifuge applications
An evaluation of a pre-production prototype of an inexpensive micro-centrifuge developed through the Technology Enhancement Programme (TEP) is briefly reported. School based, biochemical applications are suggested
26(24) Digital multimeters
A report on inexpensive digital multimeters.
30(28) News & Comment
Teaching Chip publications, Technicians’ SVQ, NCBE mailing list, Bulletin 193 on CD, POST report – Genetically Modified Foods, Scion of SOLSN, Urea assay modification
31(29) Trade News
New autoclave model, Spore test strips.
32(30) Equipment Offers
Front cover Final year project by a BTechEd student at Moray House Institute of Education – model of automatic bottling plant.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
4(2) News and Comment
Tenth Edinburgh Science Festival, More for technicians, Non-tabloid papers from POST, CV tips
5(3) Managing risk assessment
Strategies are suggested for the implementation of measures to control risks in science departments.
7(5) Animals in schools
Advice about the rights and wrongs of keeping animals in schools.
8(6) Mobile stands for videos and monitors
An accident history with some types of monitor stands and trolleys has been brought to our attention. We review the incidents and offer advice.
9(7) Dynamics experiments with a digital camera
Continuous motion can be monitored in the laboratory, or even outdoors, by capturing images with a digital camera and downloading the data in real-time to a PC for immediate analysis.
12(10) VideoPoint
Having captured a movie sequence with a camera, the video images can be analysed with the software package VideoPoint, which provides quantitative data on distance and time.
14(12) Measuring iron in water and soil
A simple colorimetric procedure using 1,1 0-phenanthroline is described. Measurements in the field may be practicable.
17(15) Teaching Chip boards
JJM Electronics have designed a set of printed circuit boards with 4 mm socket outlets for use with the Edinburgh University Teaching Chip set.
18(16) Light intensity experiments
The Edinburgh University Teaching Chips have a set of photodiodes. These are suitable for showing the inverse square law of intensity against distance and lead into other investigations on the effects of diode area.
22(20) PicoScope
With PicoScope you can turn your PC into a virtual instrument for capturing and analysing experimental data.
25(23) GS23 electrical safety guidance withdrawn
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) withdrew Guidance Note GS23 Electrical safety in schools at the end of last year. We understand that they do not plan to replace it.
26(24) Reaction timer with the BASIC Stamp
BASIC Stamps are programmed in a simple version of the BASIC language, called PBASIC. A short program is described to illustrate features of PBASIC.
28(26) Young Persons Regulations
New regulations came into force last year to protect young persons at work.
29(27) Trade News
PASCO Atmospheric Pressure Demonstrator, Extra flexible test leads, Brass lampholders, Spillage trays, Suppliers merge, Heat experiments, Waugh Oscilloscope, Micromouse kit,
31(29) Resources
Education and industry, Science options file
32(30) Equipment Offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) News and Comment
SSERC e-mail address, Dates for the diary, Micromouse, Postgraduate opportunities, Hazardous Chemicals manual, Festive season closure
4(2) Guest Article
The Special Teaching Service by – Phil Harrass Private HMI (aka Gregor Steele)
5(3) Safety Notes
Accessible plug fuses, Polarity fault on IEC connectors, Hazardous chemicals manual, RIDDOR : Telephone reporting, Farm visits by pupils, Risks from working with MDF, Laser pointers, Dangerous fuses
8(6) Super! Wow! Neat! Amazing! Spectacular
These are the words that Educational Innovations Inc. use to describe their products. We thought we would have a look for ourselves.
10(8) Technical Tips The lead tree
Demonstrating displacement of metals and redox reactions may be made topical for the festive season.
10(8) Congratulations! (lEE Teacher of the Year)
James (Jim) Johnston has been named as Technology Teacher of the Year by the Institution of Electrical Engineering (lEE).
11(9) Measuring lead in water and soil
A simple method for use in the field is described. This requires little more than a small supply of the reagent, a set of stoppered test tubes and some bits of paint colour charts. Concentrations in the range of a few parts per million are easily measured.
14(12) Programmable controllers – Part 1
The article is based on a student teacher’s personal account of the use of a programmable controller – the BASIC Stamp – for learning and teaching in school or college technology courses. A brief overview is also provided of the features of a small selection of similar devices currently on the market.
16(14) PASCO Science Workshop
Science Workshop can turn your PC or Mac into a virtual instrument for capturing and analysing experimental data. In this test report we take a critical look at the system – the software, the 500 Interface and force and motion sensors.
22(20) Trade News
It has been announced that Philip Harris and NES Arnold have merged to form a large, new company.
22(20) Corroding clips (DNA kits)
Problems due to using an older and now incorrect recipe for the buffer used for the gel electrophoresis tank.
23(21) Safety notes
23(21) Smart Box interface
We have come across a fault condition in a batch of Smart Box Computer Interfaces manufactured by Economatics throughout most of 1993 and in the early part of 1994.
23(21) Edu-Elequip apparatus
We have been sent information by a school indicating that a type of cord grip employed by Edu-Elequip is ineffective.
23(21) Power supply modifications
We have been contacted by Unilab concerning a Power Supply Module being offered for sale by Rapid Electronics.
24(22) Addendum : Klystron power supply
In a recent Bulletin issue we reported on the cause of an electric shock and recommended control measures to prevent an event like this from recurring.
24(22) First aid
On behalf of some Councils, Allen Cochrane here at SSERC has recently been looking at the problem of the scale of provision of trained first-aiders.
26(24) Switching-on genes
A simplified protocol is described for demonstrating the induction of the enzyme 13-galactosidase in strains of the bacterium Escherichia coli
30(28) Biotechnology news
Scottish Biotechnology Project, “What’s what in Biotechnology?” Additional organisms and techniques
30(28) Trade news
djb Microtech, Crocodile Clips, Sciencesoft Calculator, Exploring Space, Pumps and pipettors – again!
32(30) Equipment Offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Editorial
Made it – just! Swinging – doors and pendula, Open house- STS Helpline
4(2) News and Comment
Welcome back! Meeting reports, TIMS Survey
5(3) School prosecuted
After an accident in which two thirteen old pupils suffered burns the Health and Safety Executive has successfully prosecuted a school.
6(4) Sportswear in practical areas
Recently we have had enquiries from schools about the latest fashions in lightweight sportswear and whether or not these are acceptably safe garments for laboratories and workshops.
6(4) Mouse allergies
Reported allergies to the plastic in computer mice.
7(5) Accident with copper/sulphur mix
We have had a report from a school of an accident concerning the reaction of copper and sulphur.
8(6) Phosphatase enzymes in plants
A reliable and relatively simple practical procedure is described which should prove useful for investigative work in both biology and chemistry courses in the new Scottish “Higher Still” Arrangements.
12(10) Laser radiation interference
The article describes how to set up a large scale demonstration of Newton’s rings, measure the wavelength of light with a ruler and estimate the diameters of microscopic cells or particles.
16(14) Technicians’ News
UK Technicians’ Conference, S/NVQ occupational standards, ASE Technician membership, Esso sponsored courses
18(16) Technical Tips and Trade News
0-rings on burettes, Bargains for titrators (pipette fillers & burettes), Microscope lamps – spares, Manganese(IV) oxide granules, Two in one (Hanna meters)
19(17) Interfacing Notes X – Y plot
Many teachers and students will now be familiar with datalogged information plotted against time. Usually they can predict the shapes of graphs as per the text-book. Bring back a bit of wonderment to your science teaching. Plot one parameter against another and forget about the time! We show also one solution to that Holy Grail of Chemistry teachers – volume on the X-axis in a titration plot.
22(20) Dataloggers – three compared
The features and benefits of three dataloggers are summarised.
23(21) Hazardous chemicals manual – a preview
Sample pages of the forthcoming second edition of the SSERC Hazardous Chemicals Manual are provided on the following two page spread.
26(24) Laboratory Power supplies
In our third article on laboratory power supplies we review products from Harris, Shaw and Weir. Changes to the Griffin range are also announced.
32(30) Equipment Offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) News and Comment
Smurfin’ SSERC, Learned Societies – educational meetings, Institute of Biology, Royal Society of Chemistry, Institute of Physics, Biotechnology – teachers’ conference, Scottish biotechnology project
4(2) More ramblings
5(3) How to find us Location map for SSERC
6(4) Air rifle experiments
Many teachers will have thought hard and deep about air rifle experiments following the events in Dunblane.
7(5) Microwave ovens
Safety, use and maintenance of microwave ovens.
8(6) Liquid nitrogen
Although many teachers will be unfamiliar with handling liquid nitrogen, we do surprisingly often get enquiries about its use and recently had a report of an accident. The article looks at the cause of this accident and other hazards.
10(8) Accident report: Unilab Klystron Power Supply
A senior pupil got an electric shock when working with this obsolete equipment.
11(9) False economies
The provision of too few technicians may have an adverse effect on health and safety
12(10) Mercury exposure
Some reassurance
12(10) Lack of training – a cause of accidents
Two recent incidents reported to us underline the key preventive role of sound, practical training.
13(11) Wrongly polarised plotting compasses
It is commonplace for the polarity of a plotting compass to become reversed. We are indebted to Andrew Barclay of Moray House Institute for suggesting the following variation to the usual method for correcting this.
14(12) Laser radiation
What is laser radiation like, how do you show it, what use can you make of it? These are perhaps the first questions a teacher faces when introducing the laser to a class for the first time. This article describes ways of tackling them.
21(19) Extraction solvents for plant and animal lipids
Separation, isolation and analysis of mixtures of lipids by thin layer chromatography (TLC) is a popular practical activity in senior school biology. Recently we were asked by a school to suggest suitable substitute extraction solvents for this activity.
22(20) Ice hangers
A handy tip for making ice cubes easier to handle.
22(20) Chromobacteria
Suggestions for suitable media for the culture of the coloured bacterium Chrornobacterium lividuin.
23(21) Equipment Notes Oscilloscopes
Four single trace oscilloscopes and one inexpensive dual trace model have been tested. The report cross references with advice on oscilloscopes given in Bulletin 176.
28(26) Equipment Offers
31(29) Cumulative index Index to Bulletin Issues 180-189
34(32) IOB Meeting Booking form
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) News and Comment
New SSERC address, Membership, National chemistry conference, ASE Scotland meeting, TEP moves on
4(2) Smaller still – curricular paradoxes
5(3) Safety Notes
Prosecution under IRR(85), Health and safety bibliography, Health and safety training, Be Safe! Reprinted, Living materials revised code of practice, Seeing red : new extinguisher colours, Eye protector markings, Pressure systems : autoclaves etc. Possible revision : RPA requirement
8(6) DNA from bacterial cells
A rapid extraction method is described which demonstrates the presence of deoxyribose nucleic acid in bacterial cells. The procedure also provides a simple means of distinguishing Gram-positive from Gram-negative bacteria and has potential for detecting contamination of certain types of stock culture.
Microbiological tips
11(9) Mouthwashes
The antimicrobial activity, claimed or implied, of proprietary mouthwashes is becoming a popular topic for projects and investigations.
11(9) Plooky parallel
Investigating products claiming to control blemishes on teenage skin.
11(9) Juicy problem
V8 Juice Agar is a richer vegetarian variant of similar media.
12(10) MOSFETs
The operation of MOSFETs depends on elementary principles of physics. Factors affecting channel current can be investigated experimentally, from which a mathematical model can be constructed. The model can then be derived theoretically.
21(19) Description of Chip 2 : The MOS Transistor
Practical work in the previous article was carried out on Chip 2 of the Edinburgh University Teaching Chip set. Here we provide the specification of Chip 2 and give some tips on handling.
Technical Tips
23(21) Unilab timing ball
How the battery can be replaced.
23(21) Electricity generation
A simple means of showing how electricity can be generated by steam.
24(22) Fehling’s – an even safer substitute
In this note the hazards and risks attendant on the use of Fehling’s solutions in testing for reducing sugars and some other reducing agents are discussed. Three safer substitutes are suggested : Benedict’s Reagent, Barfoed’s Reagent and one described more recently by Sandell
25(23) Tiles : heating metals and oxides
In Bulletin 187 we reviewed recent evidence that, in certain forms, some man-made fibres (MMF) may be carcinogenic. That article also assessed the risks of some specific educational uses of such fibres.
26(24) Sheeps’ eyes : dissection
A change in the regulations.
27(25) Publications
CLEAPSS Lab Handbook, SSERC ‘s: “Interfacing for . . .” series
27(25) Odds and ends
Glycogen (grade and source) , Plethysmography
28(26) Equipment offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) News and Comment
Future of SSERC, Inaugural IoB meeting, Science Review Group Report, What’s wrong with electronics? Harris and Unilab, Another science teacher fined.
5(3) Safety Notes
Disintegrating reagent bottles, New safety publications
6(4) SOEID Circular 7/95 on lasers
The purpose and ideas behind the circular [1], prepared by SSERC on behalf of SQEID, are explained. Basically the circular updates controls on the use of lasers to conform with present health and safety legislation, laser standards and practices.
9(7) Ultrabright LED5 in educational products
Although at the time of writing this note we are still awaiting a decision by an IEC technical committee on how to assess the hazards of LED radiation, we know of two educational products incorporating ultrabright LEDs whose radiation may possibly be harmful.
10(8) Radford Labpacks
Potential safety issues.
10(8) Bulgin mains plugs
Bulgin Components plc have issued a warning to customers and to the press of a plastic welding defect in a small number of their plugs.
10(8) Apple MAC danger
Some dangerous faults found.
11(9) Earth system on Lancashire Power Unit
The following notes relate to the protective earth system on the obsolete Unilab power supply 122.312 built to a specification from Lancashire County Council – hence the name. This product was phased out in the early 1980s.
12(10) Optics with lasers
One of the purposes of Circular 7/95 was to widen the scope of laboratory work with lasers. This article describes ways of using laser radiation with ray optics and with spherical lenses. It includes models of double refraction and internal reflection within a water droplet to explain the rainbow.
19(17) Ball lens making
You can make your own ball lenses with soda glass rod. However no matter how good the result may look, it must be tested empirically to find whether it is satisfactory.
21(19) Examples of family logic
Each logic family has its own set of operating rules. In this article we look at differences between three widely used families, LS, HC and 4000B series metal gate, in the context of the sequential controller within Case Study 3, being part of support material for Higher Grade Technological Studies.
26(24) Preparation of hydrogen
Gases can be prepared with simple home-made apparatus held together with string and sealing wax. The generators and on-off control.
28(26) Hot to touch warning labels
Aldrich and Sigma supply self-adhesive, waterproof, plastic coated labels which change from black to orange and display the word ‘HOT” in red letters.
29(27) DCPIP – colour changes
We had enquiries recently on the nature of the colour change to expect with this redox indicator in the presence of ascorbic acid (vitamin C).
30(28) Skin sensitivity
The wisdom (or otherwise) of continuing to use dividers or similar metal implements for the purpose of testing the varying sensitivity to touch or contact of human skin
30(28) Technicians’ News
S/NVQ update
31(29) Trade News
Harris and Unilab, PTFE taps in burettes
32(30) Equipment Offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) News and Comment
Apology for no Winter issue, Future of SSERC, SCRE report, CLEAPSS Director, ASE Scotland AGM, IoB Meeting, Damned if they. . . Kurt but decent
5(3) Perceptions of risk
A number of factors which influence both individual and societal perceptions of risk are reviewed. Some limitations of probabilistic approaches are discussed. Arguments are made for the inclusion of some of these ideas in science and technology curricula. A summary list of such ideas is provided.
10(8) SOED Circular 8/95 on carcinogens
The broad purpose and philosophy behind the circular, prepared by SSERC on behalf of the SOED, are explained. The basic risk assessment approach adopted for this advisory document is illustrated with examples.
12(10) Simple pneumatics kit
New Pr-Mid range from Polytech 2000 suits 5 to 14 curriculum.
12(10) Microbiology videos
We have received some videos for review from the National Centre for Biotechnology Education (NCBE).
13(11) New DNA technology kit : an interim review
A first look at a new, joint, NCBE and SAPS kit for the investigation of DNA technologies
14(12) Laboratory power supplies
In this second article on laboratory power supplies we review products from Griffin and Irwin.
24(22) Discussion Paper Investigations in the Sciences
The paper in science investigations published here was prepared by teachers and members of the advisorate in Borders Region.
26(24) Hazards of man-made mineral fibres
About 20 years ago the use of asbestos products was discontinued in laboratory science because of the danger to health which had by then become evident. Ceramic fibres, a type of man-made mineral fibre (MMMF), were substituted. This article reviews recent evidence that ceramic fibres may also be carcinogenic, assesses the risks and advises on control measures.
29(27) Soluble starch
What is the best type of starch?
30(28) Diabur test strips
An alternative to Clinistix.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) News and Comment
Rising accident trends, Revised HSE freebies, Give us a sign! Technology Teachers’ Association, Prosecution : Crown v. Bird, 1995, “. . . the Law is an ass!” James on education, Pedants revolt
5(3) Editorial
SSERC thirtieth anniversary
6(4) Solder fume control
The health risk from solder fume in soft soldering is assessed. A possible strategy for instigating control measures is suggested.
12(10) Portable fume displacement units
A review of two portable devices to deal with solder fumes.
13(11) Liquid-in-liquid drop formation
Alternative methods and substitute solvents for demonstrations which at one time utilised phenylamine are described.
14(12) Urea : an assay method for investigations
A method for estimating concentrations of urea in aqueous solution is described
16(14) Laboratory power supplies, Part I
In the start of a series of articles on laboratory power supplies we review a selection of products from two manufacturers, Electrosound and Unilab.
28(26) Supervision of practical and project work
Appropriate levels of supervision for senior school students are discussed in the context of the management of health and safety. Much of the advice may be applicable also to projects in further education.
30(28) COSHH amendments and microbiology
HSE may soon publish guidance on the detailed interpretation of the Biological Agents ACoP as it effects microbiology and biotechnology activities within Higher Education.
31(29) Safety Notes
Bovine eyeball dissection, Machine safety : BS EN 292, Be Safe! Scottish edition, Be Safe! INSET pack
32(30) Technicians’ news
New E1S Section for technicians, Vocational qualifications
33(31) Opinion
Gender issues
34(32) News and announcements
ASE Scotland Newsletter, CREST – congratulations! Lone engineer, More to come. . .? Laboratory design.
35(33) Trade News
Fermenter vessel repairs, Repairs – to body if not spirit, Mini-video cameras, Weather station
36(34) Equipment Offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) News
Technology education framework, Edinburgh Science Festival, ASE Scotland annual meeting, ASE technician membership, Satrosphere, Distance learning in electronics
5(3) Editorial
“Well, hello again – Heisenberg!”, If you see Schrödinger : Wave! W(h)ither Higher? “Per ardua” without the “. astra’?
7(5) The Cock and the Jasp
An essay looking back to the age out of which the Enlightenment sprang.
8(6) RCD Protection
The article explains why some form of supplementary protection from the electricity supply is often recommended in practical work areas.
13(11) HSE and HSC publications (COSHH etc) 11
14(12) Lithium cells
This note is to warn you of the dangers of using lithium cells. In fact they should not be used in any way at all in schools except in properly designed apparatus supplied by reputable manufacturers.
15(13) The differential amplifier
The purpose of the differential amplifier is widely misunderstood, it being far more than a mere difference amplifier. This article discusses its true function and describes ways of illustrating this.
22(20) More ways of timing projectiles
The Unilab Digital Scaler Timer can be triggered to start and stop timing by microphone. Different methods of using this facility to measure the time of flight of a projectile are compared.
25(23) Sulphur dioxide canisters
A new supplier for a less-expensive version.
26(24) Software News SSERC Graphics for PCs and Apple
27(25) News Reports
Biology ’95, What is a derivative? ASE (Scotland) Annual Meeting: Practical Workshops, DNA technology news
29(27) Protected MOSFET transistors
New fully-protected power transistors have been developed. Being nearly idiot-proof, they would seem to be very suitable for use in teaching electronics and control technologies in schools and colleges.
31(29) Safety Notes
Laser pointers, Be Safe! – Scottish Edition, SSERC safety courses
32(30)Trade News
Dry ice supplies, Pipette fillers, Ken Holyoake, Autoclave bags, Dispensing bottles, Storage cabinets for flammables
33(31) Vitamin C and phenol oxidases
34(32) Trade news
Information on paints, Changes of address, Change of owner, Changes of personnel
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Leading article and acknowledgements, Materials testing kit, Comment
4(2) Lads o’pairts
A celebration of Scottish civil engineering
12(10) Portable appliance inspecting
This article provides a checklist of fault conditions to look for when visually inspecting portable electrical apparatus. The need for a maintenance programme to include informal as well as formal inspections is explained.
22(20) Materials testing
The need in technology courses for some first-hand, practical experience of the testing of materials and for the theoretical aspects of such work to be put into real engineering contexts is discussed. A testing kit from Unilab is reviewed.
26(24) Errata
Bulletin 183: Data Harvest, Philip Harris lamps
27(25) Announcements and notices
Managing health and safety, SSERC Graphics for PCs and Macs, Technology Enhancement Programme
28(26) Electrocardiograph simulator
An ECG simulator can be constructed from a couple of integrated circuits and some resistors and capacitors. It might either be a useful teaching aid in Biology, or a construction exercise in Electronics.
31(29) Loose Ends
Protein identification in foods, Phenol oxidases, Express autoclaves, BC lampholders for bench lamps
32(30) Surplus equipment offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Dates for the diary, ASE, Awards etc.
4(2) Platform
The Greenhouse Effect – what should we teach? (By Wilson Flood)
6(4) Practical work with DNA
Health and safety implications of school practical work using DNA and of equipment and materials ancilliary to such usage are described and assessed. It is concluded that the practical work catered for in two recent kits is not only acceptably safe but also educationally valuable.
9(7) Work Equipment Regulations – addendum
Further clarification about CE marking.
10(8) Felt-tip pens
We have read a report of a thirteen year old boy who developed acute dermatitis after writing on his hand with a marker pen
10(8) Alternative solvents
Alternatives to the soon to be phased out 1,1,1-trichloroethane
11(9) Plug-top teaching aid
Templates for the construction of a large scale demonstration model of the wiring of an electric plug are provided and their use described.
14(12) Interfaces, Dataloggers and sensors – a market survey
An updated summary of SSERC’s advice on computer choice is given and a number of tables are presented which give information as to what is currently available together with details of sources, prices and order codes or catalogue numbers.
18(16) Kits for digital electronics from JJM
JJM Electronics have designed two kits with which to support practical work in the Digital Electronics Optional Topic in CSYS Physics. Both kits are reviewed here. The kits are also of use in other courses.
20(18) Timing projectile motion
The time of flight of a projectile can be automatically measured by using two vibration detectors, as used in security applications, to trigger an electronic timer.
26(24) Tungsten filament lamp ratings
Measured values of power have been found to lie consistently below rated values. Why is this?
28(26) Impending gloom?
Have the lights become dimmer all over Scotland? By how much will lights dim because of voltage harmonization with our European partners?
30(28) Motor speed control – Higher grade Technological Studies
Use of a tachogenerator.
20(28) Hill reaction
We have had a few enquiries on the technical details of this practical for biology
31(29) Iodine for starch tests – again
Why you should use more dilute iodine solutions.
32(30) Surplus equipment offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Foreword
Bulletin sponsorship, Engineering Council, The WISE campaign
4(2) Clyde built An appreciation of Scottish engineering
12(10) Work Equipment Regulations
A summary of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992 was provided in this section of Bulletin 181. The Management Regulations are but one of a group of six made under the enabling powers of the Health and Safety at Work Act. Here we essay a description of another set of specific Regulations in the so-called “six-pack”.
15(13) Pressure Systems Regulations
The Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Containers Regulations 1989 came fully into force as from 1st July of this year. The major requirements are summarised. A reminder is given of earlier circulation by SSERC of proforma providing schemes of examination and for recording the results of annual inspections.
18(16) Steam engine safety
Running a steam engine is educationally valuable and it should also be a bit of fun. This article arises out of a need to ensure the likelihood of accidents is minimised.
21(19) Equipment Notes Model steam engines
We report on the safety and other design features of three model steam engines. We also report on their performances. The three engines tested are representative of a wider range of models (Table 1).
27(25) Autoclaves
Updated information on one series of models of autoclaves is provided. Recent difficulties over reputed shortcomings in the design of these Prestige Medical devices with regard to the requirements of British Standards, the Work Equipment Regulations and HSE Guidance Note PM73 are discussed.
31(29) Centrifuges
A general description of the Work Equipment Regulations is given in the Safety Notes section of this issue (see page 10). This related article seeks to provide a more specific account of the practical application of these Regulations to one type of laboratory equipment.
34(32) Tachogenerator applications Part 2
Continuing the ever-expanding number of ideas for the, if-it-moves interface it, tachogenerators or, 1001 ideas for CSYS Projects. As promised we get on our bike, balance our wheels, get in the swing and experience of bit of wind! There is also information on a simple voltage-reduction circuit and news of a cheaper motor which is good enough for many of the applications.
39(37) Machine safety
Some aspects of safety in the design of work equipment are suggested as possible contexts for teaching and learning in technology courses. The article attempts to put to positive educational use concepts behind some of the preventive and protective measures required by the Work Equipment Regs.
42(40) Distinguishing glass types
Now you see it, now you don’t, or a simple means of distinguishing between soda and Pyrex glass.
43(41) Hydrogen spectrum
Observing the visible lines of the Balmer series in atomic hydrogen
44(42) Surplus equipment offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
Deregulation
Safety Notes
4(2) Concern over wiring plugs
5(3) Management Regulations
5(3) Put a lid on it – the sodium
6(4) Transfer chamber incident
6(4) Safety Signs Regulations
6(4) Dangerous Irwin switch
7(5) Glassware for density of air experiment
7(5) Labgear radioactive sources
8(6) Focused sunlight damage
9(7) Radon and the acceptability of risk
By detecting the presence of radon in the atmosphere, teachers are able to introduce the concepts of risk and comparative risk.
11(9) Tachogenerator applications – Part 1
A number of ideas on how to measure motion inside the laboratory with interfaces and outside with dataloggers – not a highly technical article – we just show you what is possible, with graphics of suggested gear and real data.
18(16) DIY lightmeter for pupil investigations
Two DIY alternatives to the use of commercial light sensors are described for use in a Standard Grade Chemistry Investigation into “Rusting” (syllabus reference – Topic 12).
21(19) Magnetic Cornflakes
Class 1 B4 of George Watson’s College, Edinburgh describe their investigations into this strange and wondrous phenomenon.
22(20) Microscopic examination of yeast
Microscopic examination of yeast cells
23(21) Unilab Motion QED
The Motion QED is a Unilab instrument that measures time, speed and acceleration. This article looks at its intrinsic performance. The effects of light gates, other apparatus and experimental conditions are not considered.
26(24) QED and light gates to measure g
Whereas the scope of the previous article consisted of the Motion QED in isolation from other apparatus, this article looks at the performance of a complete measuring system comprising QED, light gates and masks, and the effects of ambient and experimental conditions. The test is the measurement of gravitational acceleration. How near to 9.81 ms-2 can we get?
29(27) Dynamics trolleys
The new PASCO Dynamics Cart is assessed and summarily compared with traditional trolleys, with Unilab’s Bogie and with a linear air track. We describe the typical performance to expect from the PASCO Cart in standard experiments.
38(36) Notices and Trade News
Graphics competition, Schools Chip Set, Buckybox kits, Software and hardware news
40(38) Surplus equipment offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Foreword
Sponsorship reversal
3(1) SATROSPHERE – Dream and Reality
4(2) Opinion
Right reason, wrong response,
5(3) Introduction
Environmental Studies, – SSERC training courses, Robotics competition results
7(5) Safety notes
Exploding Kipps, S odium incident, potassium problem, Electrical safety: obsolete equipment, Labpacks, latest episode, COSHH amendments, Transfer chamber incident, Safety in fieldwork publication, Exploding screen cleaner.
12(10) DNA technology kits : A review
This article describes the general approaches to practical work on aspects of DNA technology adopted by two educational kits. The contents of the kits are described and some evaluation of their use in practice given.
24(22) Hydrolysis of urea: TAPS 3 Investigation C30
Modifications to the TAPS (Teacher Assessment of Practical Skills) method for this investigation are described and sample results provided.
27(25) Graphics competition
28(26) Surplus equipment offers
31(29) Cumulative index to issues 170-179
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Foreword
Sponsorship by BESA, Education Scotland 1994 – Exhibition and Seminars
4(2) Opinion
Inexpert systems
5(3) Introduction
Dates for your diary (Education Scotland ’94, Science festival, ASE Scottish Region Annual Meeting), SSERC courses, DNA review postponed, SSERC publications
6(4) Labelling regulations
New regulations – The Chemicals (Hazard Information and Packaging) Regulations 1993 [2] came into force on the 1St September 1993. They replace and extend the earlier Classification, Packaging and Labelling Regulations (CPL) and are intended to operate much along the same lines.
7(5) Management (de-?) regulations
There is soon to be a major UK programme of deregulation in the field of health and safety. We discuss the possibilities.
8(6) More on enzymes – Urease
This article concentrates on problems in a suggested biology practical wherein urea concentrations are assayed using urease to hydrolyse the urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide and thereafter titrating against acid.
10(8) More on enzymes – Diastase
Diastase is not one enzyme but a mixture of two different forms – alpha-amylase and beta-amylase. Both act on and hydrolyse starch of which coincidentally there are two forms. It seems to have come into fashion again after a number of EAs banned, or teachers abandoned, the use of human saliva as a source of amylase
13(11) Pneumatics – a neglected technology?
In school technology devices which are driven by controlled flows of compressed air – pneumatic devices – seem but poor cousins of electrically powered and electronically controlled systems. This short article attempts to give the lie to such a view of pneumatics. It describes a number of modern, industrial and commercial applications of compressed air devices. They are intended to assist teachers provide pupils with a more balanced view of pneumatics technology applications.
18(16) Computer assisted drawing: SSERC Graphics Collections CD-ROM
This article has been set in what some may see as hypertext. It describes the features and benefits of our graphics and data collections on compact disc, read-only memory (CD-ROM). Also explained are some of our own, in-house, applications of this vast library of objects, text and data.
22(20) Robotics systems – a survey of users part II (Bill Lindsay)
The pupils’ views. This article follows on from an earlier account on teachers’ perceptions of robotics systems used for teaching purposes.
26(24) Experimental errors
The article provides background on the sources and possible treatment of experimental errors in senior school practical and project work. Terms are defined and thus distinguished. Some approaches and short-cuts that may not be well known are described.
36(34) Equipment Offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Foreword
Sponsorship: ScottishPower
4(2) Opinion
5(3) DNA, dinosaurs and dangers
Laboratory acquired infections – A number of school practical activities are re-assessed in the light of current knowledge of likely degrees of risk of acquiring certain infections from materials of living origin.
11(9) Electrothermal heating mantles
We have received notice from Electrothermal Engineering Limited through one of their distributors, Philip Harris, of a condition that can arise with certain controlled heating mantles
12(10) Lead ions and enzymes
A technique for monitoring what we thought at the time was the effect of lead ions in inhibiting the action of the catalase.
16(14) To measure the length of a metre stick
If laser light is modulated at 5 MHz by a signal from a quartz crystal oscillator then we can measure the time in nanoseconds taken by the light beam to travel an integral number of metre stick lengths. Because the velocity of light is exactly defined, we can obtain a value for the length of a metre stick.
24(22) Digital Multimeters
In this report we look at a batch of 14 digital multimeters
30(28) Plastic rulers
Ruler scales and accuracy.
32(30) That old flame again
Flame tests – the modification of a Bunsen burner so that an aerosol of a metal salt is drawn in through its air intake.
34(32) Electrolysis of melts
A substitute for a lead salt in the electrolysis of a melt, thus reviving a use of potassium iodide.
36(34) Fun with neodymium – – Lenz’s Law and Newton
If you drop a neodymium magnet down a copper tube, it gently floats to earth, as in a fairy glide, tinkling each time it touches the not quite vertical tube. That it takes this hunk of alloyed iron 10s to fall 2 m is astonishing. The music it makes is magical.
38(26) Surplus equipment offers
41(39) Announcement Software copyright
42(40) Trade News
BEEA Exhibition, BEEA Exhibition, Protective equipment, Microbiology materials, Introductions to magnifiers and microscopes
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
An illuminating question
4(2) Safety Notes
CSYS microbiology: the majority of Scottish EAs have either adopted, or adapted, the Strathclyde documents and issued them as their own Code of Practice (CoP). Any significant clash with the recommendations of the Biology Panel of the Scottish Examination Board is a potentially serious problem. Fortunately however, those difficulties which have been indicated are more apparent than real. Few cannot be resolved by twin applications of the principles of COSHH and common sense.
8(6) A robot for the teacher?
A survey of users Part I (Bill Lindsay) – This is the first in a short series of articles on robots and related devices intended for use in technology education at school level. The results of a survey of schools are summarised. These provide some insight into: the kinds of robotics equipment used in Scottish secondary schools; teachers’ perceptions of the overall usefulness of specific models of teaching robot and of factors which seem to limit their usage.
14(12) Recirculatory fume cupboards
The general features of recirculatory fume cupboards and provides technical and other guidance on their selection and use, for schools and non-advanced further education. The results of a recent testing and evaluation programme on four models are summarised.
24(22) Monitoring of recirculatory filters
Sulphur dioxide has been routinely used as an acidic gas with which to challenge the relevant parts of the compound filters of recirculatory fume cupboards. Unfortunately the gas is no longer available in the relatively cheap form of a liquid under pressure in a syphon made largely of aluminium. We offer alternatives.
26(24) Finite-element analysis
The article introduces finite-element analysis, which is a mathematical method for modelling
physical processes in complex structures. The method is applied to the spreading resistor R9 in the Semiconductor Materials Schools Chip in order to obtain a value for sheet resistance.
33(31) Announcements
SSERC publications and software, – CSYS Physics Experimental Guide, – Chemical Modeller: new version
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
A question of standards
4(2) Introduction
Notice: FE colleges; Diary Dates: Technology Conference, TTA Annual Meeting, Science and Technology Festival, SSERC Courses; From your own correspondence
5(3) Readers’ Letters
A plea for more correspondence. Letters on: Hazard warning labels, Plasters and allergies, Weil’s disease, Clinistix, Amplifier gain,
8(6) Safety Notes
Guidance on new regulations, Electrical safety problems: – Radford labpack, Ambiguous connectors, Shaper saws,
10(8) Laser safety and laser diodes
Several schools have enquired about laser diodes. We address the safety issues here in this part of the Bulletin and give some technical information and buying advice in a later section.
13(11) Making necessary links
An account is provided of some basic linkage mechanisms and suggestions made as to their usefulness for project work and the improvement of technological competence at upper primary and lower secondary levels.
19(17) Oscilloscopes
This article describes the general features which are available on oscilloscopes and gives advice on their relevance for schools. We also describe and compare the performances of five single trace and twelve dual trace oscilloscopes, and give buying advice thereon. The need for the pupil oscilloscope, or instruments with minimalist controls is recognised.
27(25) Laser diode modules
This note provides a buyers’ guide to laser diode modules (LDMs) and discusses whether they are of interest to schools.
30(28) Trade news etc
Balance burn out, CD-ROMs for science courses, Higher physics resources, Chemistry project prize
32(30) Surplus equipment offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Foreword
Sponsorship: The Schools Chip project
4(2) Introduction
Editorial: Crying Wolff? Christmas closures.
6(4) OPAX stereomicroscope – nae earth!
A problem caused by the absence of protective earthing, yet the insulation system was of the type that required an earth conductor.
6(4) Beckman 9012 – fused on the neutral
Dangerous fault found in an oscilloscope.
7(5) Practical Work with Schools Chip
This article describes the structure of Mototorola Semiconductor Materials Chip, Schools Chip 1. It discusses some practical difficulties in working with the chip and provides you with ideas for practical work.
17(15) Revised Higher Grade Chemistry – radioactivity
Practical work relevant to Unit 8 : Radioisotopes in the revised syllabus is described.
27(25) Biology and Human Biology – thermistor applications
Scottish curricular contexts for such applications are indicated. Working circuits are provided which give excellent linear responses : one for general physiological work and others of ranges for ecological and other environmental investigations.
32(30) PASCO Introductory Rotational Apparatus and Centripetal Force Accessory
Our evaluation report consists of a description of several experiments with this apparatus. These compare experimental data with values calculated by theory.
39(37) Protactinium generator problems
Several teachers have contacted us this year with problems related to the protactinium generator and half life of Pa-234 experiment. These problems have been looked into and, we think, resolved.
40(38) Sodium flame pencil substitute
As a substitute for the sodium flame pencil we recommend effervescing a sodium salt into the air entry to a Bunsen
40(38) Sodium street lamps
Advice on operating 35 W, 240 V a.c, sodium street lamps New information on operating the lamps is included.
41(39) 4 mm stackable plug repairs
Plugs that have lost their grub screw can be kept in service by soldering the lead directly to one face of the hexagonal sectioned barrel.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
Running risks
4(2) Introduction
Sponsorship, Annual Meeting dates, Science Education, SSERC Courses, Science, technology and safety
6(4) New regulation
New leglislation needed to implement six EC (European Community) Directives on health and safety at work.
6(4) HSE enquiries
From 1st of June this year the HSE Public Enquiry Service has been centralised at the HSE’s Sheffield Information Centre.
7(5) Obsolete Griffin laser
We have had enquiries from schools concerned that their Griffin laser had failed a routine maintenance test of electrical insulation.
7(5) Gamma source storage
Here we provide an estimate of the risks arising from storage of gamma sources near to or in a classroom.
8(6) Outmoded SOED circulars
Old circulars on Lasers and Carcinogens they lack relevance or technical veracity.
9(7) Higher Grade Human Biology – – Instrumentation Part II
This is the second article in a short series describing practical work for the new Human Biology syllabus at the Higher Grade.
15(13) Standard Grade Technological Studies
The article describes a project in prothesis. A summary description is given of the development of designs for a jointed, flexible foot. This is intended to improve the performance of artificial legs. Diagrams of systems and sub-systems are included.
18(16) CSYS Chemistry – Experiment using a computer, more student material
The following notes suggest techniques for monitoring changes in pH using a pH electrode and either a Harris sensor or a pH meter interfaced to a microcomputer.
27(25) Radio receiver signals
An idea for simultaneously displaying the modulated signal, decoded signal and filtered audio output in a radio receiver.
28(26) Kynar film problems
We have found that the film can deteriorate with age through the progressive effects of repeated mechanical damage.
29(27) Strain gauges in Technological Studies – a further application
We have now built and trialled a simple circuit providing crude on – off motor control.
30(28) Higher Grade Chemistry – – chemical egg timers
An alternative to that described in the prescribed practical activities (PPAs) for Unit 5, Experiment 2, of the Higher Grade Chemistry syllabus, which uses as a method the measurement of the times taken to run the same volume of pentane and propan-2-ol out of two burettes.
32(30) Buckyballs Assembly instructions and template
We provide here a copy of a simple template designed by Professor Good. This may be reproduced, folded and taped together to produce three-dimensional models of C-60 or C-70.
34(32) Trade News
Sunclocks, Electronic rainfall gauge, Repairs: Skeletons in cupboards? Glassware fabrication and repair,
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Foreword
Sponsorship – Scottish Enterprise
4(2) Introduction
Standard Grade Physics – Technical Guides: Volume 2, Acknowledgement – Jimmy Bell, SSERC courses, Saturday opening, Obituary – Mrs Diane Rogers
5(3) 1992 and all that
The Health and Safety Commission (HSC) has recently published proposals for implementing the 1989 European Community (EC) Framework Directive
5(3) BC lampholders
Although there is a significant risk of electric shock from touching the live pin of a BC lampholder, we cannot recollect ever getting an accident report from a school on an injury resulting from this cause.
5(3) Demountable transformers
Unsafe connection to the primary winding of some models of demountable transformer such as from Irwin, and imports from Russia.
6(4) Radiant heaters
Advice to dispose of dangerous radiant heat sources.
7(5) Preventing electric shock
By considering the effects of electric current passing through the human body, standards on safe working practices have been devised. These include levels for voltage, current and capacitance defining a regime known as hazardous live. They also include specifications for protective devices such as fuses and other forms of circuit breakers.
16(14) Higher Grade Human Biology
This article describes practical work in support of the newly introduced syllabus in Human Biology at the Higher Grade. It concentrates on applications of modern instruments and information technologies in particular, datalogging devices.
25(23) Stepper motor drive Part 1
This is the first of a series of articles on means of driving stepper motors. It discusses some general properties of sequential circuits and shows how the signals to drive a 4-phase stepper are generated by J-K flip-flops.
29(27) CSYS Chemistry – Experiment using a computer – more student material
The procedure shown here is a continuation of that given in Bulletin 172. Using datalogging and computer interfacing techniques to investigate the kinetics of the hydrolysis of (2-bromo-2-methylpropane)
32(30) Equipment Notes Digital coulombmeters
Five models of digital coulombmeter are compared and their performances contrasted with that of an older model of electrometer. The article concludes with a brief description of the use of digital coulombmeters in teaching electrostatics.
36(34) New Course Material Computer control packages
New courses in computer control for use in upper secondary and middle higher education – originating from Israel.
37(35) Technical Tips
Alpha repairs: Solenoid unit, Photodiode pin identification, Rapid vice, The ring circuit, Calibrating a xenon strobe,
38(36) Trade News
Welcome PASCO Scientific, Labfacility, Solar water pumping system, Schools’ Laboratory Equipment Company, New software from djb, Batteries, New Fluke multimeters, Telling the time, Well done, Philip Harris
40(38) Surplus equipment offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Foreward
New, 4-colour cover, Sponsorship (Institution of Electrical Engineers), Continued independence
4(2) Introduction
Editorial – Safety : Funding, communication and management, Diary dates (RSC meeting, ASE Scottish Region) SSERC courses
6(4) Gas guidance – addendum
Some local Scottish Gas personnel may be mis-interpreting a requirement which we dealt with in a previous article under the sub-section Portable or movable equipment. This was the need for flexible hoses with self-sealing plug and socket-end fittings.
6(4) Electrical accident report
An electrical accident with a Radford power supply.
7(5) Hazardous live
An electricity supply is deemed to be hazardous live if it is capable of rendering an electric shock or electric bum. Sometimes the Centre is called upon to specify what constitutes hazardous live.
8(6) Explosion
We have had a report of a serious incident in a Scottish secondary school when a bottle of silicon tetrachloride exploded.
9(7) Laboratory use of domestic appliances
A recent national safety circular issued by MSF entitled “Use of Domestic Appliances in the Laboratory” and gave examples of a number of accidents and dangerous occurrences arising from laboratory use of electrical appliances of domestic pattern.
9(7) Glue guns
The Centre recently inspected a couple of imported glue guns submitted for evaluation by an educational supplier. Both were hazardous.
10(8) Reaction rates – powdered marble and acid
A method is described which allows measurements even of extremely rapid reactions between finely powdered marble and hydrochloric acid. The method relies on the use of an internal dispenser and of datalogging software.
13(11) CSYS Chemistry Experiment using a computer – pupil material
The kinetics of the hydrolysis of (2-bromo-2-methylpropane)
Instructional material is presented as an interim measure to assist teachers to meet a new requirement in the Sixth Year Studies syllabus. This states that at least one of the prescribed practical exercises is to be carried out using datalogging and computer interfacing techniques.
18(16) Higher Grade Physics – photodiodes
This article describes practical work in support of the recently altered section on photodiodes in the Revised Higher Physics syllabus.
24(22) Autoclave review
We report on three models of laboratory autoclave and a large pressure cooker. Performance criteria are described together with test procedures. The results of such tests are summarised and recommendations on purchasing are made.
33(31) Surplus equipment offers
33(31) Trade News
Wire wrapping tools, New range of power supplies from Griffin, New power supplies from Unilab, New J J M products, impulse sensor, Orbit Tellerium, Another datalogger from Harris, Harmony software, Motion QED, Model houses, New drivers for Alpha,
Wire wrapping tools, New range of power supplies from Griffin, New power supplies from Unilab, New J J M products, impulse sensor, Orbit Tellerium, Another datalogger from Harris, Harmony software, Motion QED, Model houses, New drivers for Alpha,
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
Ravings Again.
6(4) Introduction
Saturday Opening, Christmas closure, New status for SSERC, Strathclyde orders – delays, No comment.
6(4) Gas guidance
An overview is provided of current requirements for both the safe installation and the regular inspection and maintenance of gas supply systems in educational establishments.
9(7) Autoclave safety
Potential problems with some samples of an autoclave model manufactured by Dixons and sold by a number of the specialist educational suppliers.
10(8) Strain gauges
A family of four articles on strain gauges is presented. The first two are of general application and cover background theory and techniques for mounting. The third and fourth pieces describe specific educational uses – firstly for physics then for technological studies.
10(8) Introduction
12(10) Installation
15(13) Capturing impulse
20(18) Technology applications
23(21) Interfacing – First Sense
This article continues our series of updating reviews on commercial equipment and software for interfacing in science and technology education.
31(29) Surplus equipment offers
34(32) Technological Studies
Contents page for SSERC 32 Resource Files
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion I
Ravings
4(2) Introduction
Summer opening, Cheerio, Clive!, Errata in B169, Reason – excuses
5(3) Shell suits – again
Since the last Bulletin we have received some more samples of material and replies from the sportswear manufacturers whom we contacted.
6(4) Old glass stills
Recently we heard a report of a glass still pot wearing so thin that it fell apart.
6(4) DIY video in biology
The use of an inexpensive camera mounted on a school-built stand for demonstrations at both the micro and macro scale is described.
10(8) First ionisation energies
The article for Higher Chemistry describes the use of two types of thyratron valve, in measuring the first ionisation energies of the inert gases argon and xenon. Experimental procedures are described and constructional details given.
Preparing COSHH Risk Assessments for Project Work in Schools 12
15(13) Opinion II
Rantings
16(14) Portable appliance testers
In this article we report on portable appliance testers, which are used in maintenance tests on portable electrical apparatus. A description of the tests is included.
25(23) Grampian Op-amp Board
We have recently had in for evaluation an op-amp board from a company called J J M Electronics, newly formed by a Morayshire teacher.
26(24) Interfacing latest
OK, what’s red and into logging? No, not a Russian lumberjack but a new range of sensors from Unilab.
27(25) Opinion III
Ramblings – Cats and technology education
29(27) Index to Bulletins 160 – 169
33(31) SSERC (and other) Publications
SSERC Graphics Library 32
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Apology, Dates for your diary (SABE Symposium, Technology Education Courses), TTA – change of name, SSERC Practical Guides, TVEI OLNET, Industrial Study Videos, Technicians in school science
5(3) Shell suits
We have been asked whether or not we consider such clothing to present a significant fire hazard in laboratories and practical rooms.
5(3) Asthmatics and practical work
Teachers of practical subjects should be made aware, through the school’s guidance and other procedures, of potential health problems in individual pupils.
6(4) “Competent persons”
We encourage educational managers to think more carefully about what constitutes competence to carry out certain tasks required by Health and Safety legislation. The position has now been elegantly clarified by Mr.J.A.W. McDonald, Head of HSE Policy Branch.
6(4) The HSC and Stress – correlation or causality?
The HSC publication: ‘Managing occupational stress : a guide for managers and teachers in the schools sector’,
7(5) COSHH Risk Assessments
Launch of “Preparing COSHH Risk Assessments for Project Work in Schools”,.
7(5) Autoclaves – liquid loads.
The difficulty in ensuring sterility in larger liquid loads such as of the relatively large volumes of media required for work with fermenters.
8(6) Environmental Protection Act 1990
Another piece of legislation aimed mainly at others but which may cause some problems for schools.
10(8) Electronics “Systems Boards” – Friend or Foe?
The results of a SSERC survey are summarised. Information and comment on reliability, ease of use and effective learning are presented.
14(12) Standard Grade Biology -more practical tips
Testing river water for bacteria – various methods.
16(14) An Ultrasound Project
A method for transmission of information, analogue and or digital, through water, using the medium of ultrasound. Obviously it was desirable that costs should be kept to a minimum.
20(18) DIY Computer Interfacing III
This is the third in a series of articles which will be of interest to anyone who wants to build their own interfaces for BBC Model Bs, Masters, or Archimedeses, for datalogging or control.
23(21) Bench power supplies for electronics
We report on voltage regulated bench power supplies for use in electronics.
28(26) Interfacing – the datalogger cometh
This article provides an up-date on the main developments in commercial equipment and software for science and technology interfacing since our last such review article in 1986.
21(29) Three dataloggers reviewed
LogIT – Griffin & George v Sense & Control, Educational Electronics v Simple logger, Unilab
PP 40(38) – 43(41) are missing
42(40)Computer choice – again
43(41) Surplus equipment offers
46(44) SSERC Publications and Graphics Library
(Eye protection)
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
4(2) Introduction
Christmas closure, Yet another farewell, Have you read. . . ? Comment
5(3) Announcements
Science And Plants For Schools, Cross-curricular projects,
5(3) Trade News
Harris Analogue Colorimeter, New RS range of tools, LogIT portable data logger, Common data format
6(4) Apparatus defects – electrical safety
Our routine evaluation programme of apparatus has brought to light a number of potentially dangerous defects in electrical products.
7(5) Problems with acidified dichromate (VI)
We recently had a report from a Principal Teacher of Chemistry that the reaction of this reagent with ethanol and ethanal had been occasionally somewhat violent.
8(6) Microbiological safety
8(6) Glass envelope insulation on tank heaters
We are concerned at the usage of glass as a functional layer of insulation in certain electrical immersion heaters operating at 240 V.
9(7) Pipeclay triangles
Possible flaws in batches of pipeclay triangles supplied by Philip Harris
9(7) Printed circuit board manufacture
Advice on protection measures which should be taken when making p.c.b’s.
13(11) Seno Workstation – PCB manufacture
This workstation claims that it has been specially designed to minimise risk during this activity. Does it live up to its promise?
pp 12 & 13 missing from full scan – included in the separate download on Eye Protection, above.
14(12) Eye protection 12
16(16) Standard Grade Biology – practical tips
16(16) Milk agar and enzyme action
17(17) Immobilised Enzymes
18(18) Fermenters – part III
Practical tips are given on the construction of a model of a continuous fermentation system. Two further models are described which provide contexts for simple investigations of problems in biochemical engineering.
22(22) DIY interfacing II
This is the second in a series of articles which will be of interest to anyone who wants to build their own interfaces for BBC Model Bs, Masters, or Archimedeses, for datalogging or control.
27(27) A platinum resistance thermometer
An accurate, electronic thermometer reading directly in degrees Celsius can be designed and constructed using a platinum resistance temperature detector in one arm of an out-of-balance resistance bridge.
29(29) Unilab Alpha Kit
Some common failures
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
5(3) Introduction
Errata in B166, Saturday openings, More farewells (Danny Burns, Plan Z, Again, advisers – adieu, Hugh Maclaren HMI)
6(4) Pressure vessel checks – new regulations
Made under the Health and Safety etc. at Work Act, 1974, the “Pressure Systems and Transportable Gas Containers Regulations, 1989” came into force with effect on the 1st of July 1990.
7(5) Electrical safety – HSE Guidance Note GS23 revised
The Health and Safety Executive Guidance Note on electrical safety in schools was first published in September 1983. A 1990 revised version has been available through HMSO since April or May of this year.
8(6) Disposal of chemicals
We expect that many schools follow the advice contained in Hazcards [1]. However this advice needs qualifying. A recent communication from an Environmental Health Officer drew our attention to one way in which information on Hazcards may be being misinterpreted by some.
11(9) Brown mushroom demo
We have had a report of this demonstration going wrong and spraying a teacher with concentrated nitric acid.
11(9) Oven fires
We have heard of a fire caused by a fault in a glass drying oven in a university.
11(9) That dangerous music power supply again!
Another supplier of a hazardous power supply.
12(10) Applications of Information Technology
A family of articles on computer applications in science and technology education.
12(10) An overview
13(11) SSERC graphics library for Archimedes computers 11
14(12) The transition from Master to Archimedes 12
16(14) Manipulating data with Datadisc Plus – some chemistry applications
26(24) DIY computer interfacing
This is the first of a series of articles which will be of interest to anyone who wants to build their own interfaces for a BBC Model B, Master, or Archimedes, for datalogging or control.
30(28) Fermenters – Part II
Practical tips are given on the implementation of a selection of published ideas for the d.i.y construction of fermenters.
33(31) Further practical work to underpin Newton’s Laws of Motion
33(31) High speed flash photography
35(33) Propeller driven trolley
37(35) Errata (Bulletin 166)
38(36) Digital multimeters
In this survey, the first we have published in the Bulletin since 1986, the thirteen meters reported on are all considered to be good buys. Some were found to be less good than others, but none were found to have critical deficiencies.
43(31) Trade News
Pipette fillers, New Alpha boards for H Grade Physics, Omega boards for H Grade Physics, BDH branch closure, Sofex – old and new. Water pumps. Model houses, Materials for TAPS Tests, Lensman – a pocket microscope, Regulated power supplies, Locktronics, Radford
45(43) Surplus equipment offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
4(2) Introduction
Bulletin format, Farewells, Summer opening, Equipment Sales, More on SAPS
5(3) SSERC Publications Standard Grade Chemistry
SSERC can now offer updated information on equipment and chemicals, including those items necessary to undertake the practical work set out in the revised Higher syllabus.
7(5) Technological Studies
Since the Spring of 1989 and the start of our Scottish Joint Support Activity Project for TVEI, we have been developing and trialling in-service materials for teachers of Technological Studies.
8(6) Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
This article notifies you of the Regulations, discusses their purpose, scope of application and nature, describes some of their requirements and outlines their possible impact on methods of working.
10(8) TV set modifications
We draw your attention to a warning circulated at the end of last session by the Health and Safety Executive. It described two particular fault conditions caused by modifications carried out to a TV set.
10(8) A dangerous music power supply
This note is about a mains to 12 V power supply from the Music Centre, 48 Campbell Street, Hamilton,or from a branch in Paisley.
10(8) Microscope lamps
Problems with n a microscope lampholder marked “Olympus Tokyo Japan”
11(9) Rewiring soldering irons
Advice on replacing the cord in soldering irons.
11(9) Compressed air supplies
A new booklet, published by the Health & Safety Executive entitled ‘Compressed air safety’. Although these guidance notes are mainly aimed at the industrial user they contain much infonnation and advice which will be of value to teachers and technicians in Technology Education Departments.
12(10) Standard Grade Technological Studies
Since publication of recent articles, we have received a number of requests that we describe more fully one sample project. That is what we attempt to do in the article which follows. We look at possible solutions to the “Automatic Door System” problem outlined in Bulletin 164.
20(18) Some experiments to underpin Newton’s Second Law of Motion
Two experiments are described which support the concept that the unbalanced force is equal to the rate of change of momentum.
21(19) Flashing LED paradox
Connect a LED across an induction coil, fitted with a C-core and orient, a magnet such that the LED flashes brightly if the magnet is smartly withdrawn from the C-core
22(20) An op-amp power supply
The design of a dual rail power supply with voltage regulation is discussed.
24(22) A bi-directional motor driver
A need has arisen for an additional circuit to drive small d.c. motors, providing linear voltage control from zero to maximum in either direction.
28(26) DIY coulometer cells
The counter cells are no longer available from suppliers. Described here is the construction of diy cells and ancillary items, namely, a platinum electrode and a constant current supply.
30(28) Gas collection and d.i.y. electrodes revisited
Two good ideas on this theme have been sent to us from Stromness Academy. The ideas are excellent in that they can be cheaply and easily constructed and are most effective in use.
Gas collection – The device described below removes the need to have to place a finger or thumb under the surface of a solution of an electrolyte.
Electrodes – Simple ‘S’-shaped electrodes have the advantage over the usual linear rod-type that they can be hung on the sides of a beaker
31(29) Fermenters Part I
We describe three broad categories of fermentation apparatus for use in schools. Distinctions are made on educational grounds. Commercial devices are reviewed.
38(36) Portable radiation monitors
We test two models break the £200 price barrier. Their appearance is particularly apposite at a time when curricular changes have introduced the concepts of dose, dose rate and typical background levels.
40(38) Pneumatics – compressors and air supply arrangements
This article provides general notes on the choice, installation and use of compressed air supplies in Standard Grade Technological Studies.
44(42) CCAP Culture Kit – a review
We continue interrupted evaluation of this culture kit which uses algae and protozoa to support practical work in microbiology and biotechnology
45(43) Trade News
LJ Systems, Opitec, MJP Geo Packs, Oscilloscope repair, Clandon Scientific Limited, Ross and Lamont
46(44) Surplus equipment offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
DTP Addiction – Desk Top Publishing is a wonderful facility. We all love it. It enables the maladroit to produce professional-looking worksheets.
4(2) Introduction
Easter closure, Saturday mornings, Scottish ASE Annual meeting, Technology – open courses, Bulletin blockages, Bulletin production, Technical resource support for Standard Grade Chemistry, Surveys of consumer opinion, Interactivity
6(4) S.G.Technological Studies
That which follows completes a trilogy of articles on how coursework for the new Standard Grade might be organised, managed and taught.
Pp 11 – 14 Questionnaires on system boards and eye protection
16(10) Further notes on thermocouples
The design of an electronic thermometer using a Type K thermocouple and a specialised thermocouple amplifier with cold junction compensation is described. This should interest anyone wanting to build a cheap thermometer with a working range of —200°C to +1250°C.
19(13) Standard Grade Biology Topic 7 – Biotechnology
We have come across some snags in two of’ the practical activities in the Topic 7 National Exemplar materials. In the main, these minor difficulties arise out a lack of detail in the Teacher/Technician Guide for the topic. These short notes aim to plug such gaps.
19(13) Staining yoghurt bacteria
19(13) Pectinase — extraction of fruit juice
22(16) Anemometers for fume cupboard monitoring
This article discusses fume cupboard monitoring and looks at several of’ the more reasonably priced anemometers that can be used to measure the face velocities of fume cupboards.
27(21) Pulse monitors – addendum
An addition to the summary in Bulletin 164
28(22) Centrifuges
In our equipment lists for Standard Grade Biology we only mentioned less expensive models of centrifuge intended for general school laboratory applications. We did annotate the list to the effect that we would be updating our test programme on more sophisticated models suitable for use right through to CSYS level.
29(23) Printers and plotters
We have been looking at ways of improving the presentation of our printed materials. In so doing we have had on loan for evaluation a number of printers and plotters.
33(27) Science & Plants for Schools (SAPS)
The SAPS programme has been set up to promote and support exciting plant science teaching in schools.
33(27) Trade News
Ian Douglas, microscope servicing
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
COSHH’ed to death
4(2) Introduction
Christmas closure, Standard Grade costings, SSERC publications for Standard Grade, MISAC advisers, no comment
6(4) Portable socket outlets
We draw your attention to a portable socket outlet having a design feature that is hazardous and places the user at risk.
6(4) Flexible cords
Flexible cords – often called flexes – are the cables that connect portable electrical appliances to socket outlets. We describe here two special types of flexible cord that you may need to use.
7(5) Philips spectral lamps – polarity checks
We recently issued a circular advising authorities to carry out several checks including one on the polarity of wiring to the Edison screw lamp fitting. Unfortunately we did not explain how such a check should be done.
9(7) Eye protection
Our article in Bulletin 163 on the precautions to take when soldering included stating the requirement that eye protection must be worn. We would like expand on this to make explicit what is required. This comment pertains to any such hazardous activity, not just soldering.
9(7) Microwave apparatus – HT hazard
Hazards associated with some older models of microwave.
9(7) Harris protactinium generator
We understand that a number of bottles containing this radioactive source have leaked.
10(8) COSHH in schools
The Health and Safety Commission (Education Service Advisory Committee) has published its very readable booklet “COSHH: Guidance for schools”. A summary.
18(16) Standard Grade costings – S.G.Technological Studies
Our estimates for equipping Technological Studies.
29(27) Power supplies for electronics and technology courses
The choice of suitable power supply types for electronics and technology courses is discussed and proper usage described. The article should be of interest to anyone using electronic circuitryfor instrumentation and control.
37(35) Soldering stations tested
We review various models.
40(38) Pulse monitor update
This area of the market has remained dynamic and the intention here is simply to give a summary of the results of more recent evaluation work since our last article.
44(42) Electronic thermometers – more models tested
We report on seven models of digital thermometer. This supplements the eighteen summarized in Bulletin 162.
46(44) Surplus Equipment Offers
50(48) Notices
The Biochemical Society, British Society for History of Science, ‘Biotechnology Education’
3(1) Opinion
4(2) Introduction
Waffle waffle, Bulletin distribution, Change of address and phone number, Staff: ‘old’ and ‘new’, —Saturday opening, Technological Studies
7(5) Soldering — what precautions to take
We have been asked to give advice on what precautions to take in soldering. The advice which follows is pertinent to both staff and pupils.
9(7) Bursting bottle experiment
The risk that can be encountered, through not following safety instructions, when using a Bursting Bottle.
9(7) Iodine filter for infrared
Use of an iodine solution to filter out visible light but allow IR through.
10(8) SSERC and Technological Studies
We hope that we at SSERC can assist technology teachers by offering advice and, through a series of articles in subsequent bulletins, provide useful technical support and some relevant resources.
22(20) Reflex action
A method for estimating the latency period of a reflex action is described. Hints on the construction of a hammer with a built-in triggering mechanism are given.
27(25) Gas volume determination – another method
Another method for gas volume determination has been suggested by Sid Gallagher of Campbeltown Grammar. This method still allows access to interfacing packages but without the requirement for a precision glass syringe.
29(27) Buffer solutions – a market survey
The costs of chemicals used in DIY preparations of buffers are compared with those of commercially available buffer solutions, sachets and tablets.
29(27) Buffer solutions – DIY preparation
The details for a number of buffer solutions are described.
32(30) DIY transducers for distance and velocity v. time
Designs are outlined for two novel, cheap and easily constructed transducers with voltage outputs directly proportional to (1) distance and (2) velocity. Several applications are described.
37(35) An op-amp tachometer
The back e.m.f. of a motor is directly proportional to its angular speed. In this method the back e.m.f. is derived algebraically by subtracting the voltage dropped across a series resistor from the voltage developed across the motor. The output signal is thereby a function of speed.
39(37) Evaluation report — the Motion Sensor
An ultrasonic rangefinder linked to a BBC Computer through the computer’s User Port.
41(39) After the Master – which computer?
The Master is of course still available. Why are we considering ‘the next’ machine at all? The new generation of machines give you more computing power for your money; but do you need more computing power?
43(41) Trade news
44(42) Surplus Equipment Offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Announcement
Changes to SSSERC service
4(2) COSHH Regulations
By now many teachers and technicians may be vaguely aware of the “Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations” — ‘COSHH’ for short. These regulations have already been laid before Parliament and will take effect as from October of this year with further requirements as from January 1990.
7(5) Gas taps, a reminder
We again would draw your attention to the need for inspection of anti—rotation provision on laboratory gas taps and for prompt remedial action where that is found to be necessary.
7(5) Vacuum flask implosion
We have received an account from a school of such an implosion during a calorimetry experiment.
7(5) Explosion in a flask
A round- bottomed flask fitted with electrodes and used for the sparking of air to show the combination of nitrogen and oxygen in air. It was wshed with ethanol to speed drying . . .
8(6) Implosion, carbon filament lamp
Another bang with broken and flying glass. It is of particular interest because it highlights differences between carbon filament lamps, used for certain physics activities, and lamps of the more usual tungsten filament type.
9(7) More on lamps, ES fittings
We have had, very recently, notice of an accident involving a sodium lamp with an Edison Screw fitting.
10(8) Pupils wiring plugs
Risks from a common method of carrying out this activity.
10(8) Permitted access to mains
Control of pupil-wired devices.
11(9) Measuring mains voltage An improved method
12(10) Thermistors:
Simple means of getting accurate temperature data. this technique is explained and illustrated. A computer listing is given to take out some of the mathematical sweat.
15(13) Biotechnology: microbial fuel cell
We have been trying out such a cell based on ordinary baker’s or brewer’s yeast Saccharomyces cerevisae. We have been much impressed both by the performance of this device and the principles behind it.
17(15) Electronic thermometers tested
There are now dozens of models of cheap digital thermometers on the market. How good are they?
22(20) Surplus equipment offer
3(1) Announcement
The future of SSSERC
4(2) Introduction
Biotechnology Symposium, Thanks Nick, Christmas closure, Technical resource support for Standard Grade, Comment
5(3) Radioactive sources – leakage tests
As a requirement of the Ionising Radiations Regulations many schools have now for the first time tested their sealed radioactive sources for leakage.
7(5) Modern instrumentation in biology teaching
The need to use electronic sensors is discussed together with educational arguments on requirements for “transparency” of operation.
11(9) Radon in buildings – a simple detection method
In recent years there has been an increased interest in the subject of natural background radiation. We show a simple method to retect radon.
15(13) A chain reaction – with mousetraps
A collection of twelve or so mousetraps are set and placed in the bottom of’ a large clear plastic tank and a ping-pong ball thrown in.
15(13) Ring main models
Further comments and clarifications.
17(15) Digital multimeters and blown fuses
We have had several reports of fuses blowing in digital multimeters – not just in one or two meters – but in part class sets of meters.
18(16) Electronic sensors
Modern electronic sensors are reviewed and the general structure of sensory instruments is described. Sensors are classified according to physical method of operation. market summary of commercial sensors for educational use is given. There is advice on matching commercial sensors to displays or recorders.
28(26) Screen dumps from ‘Grapher’
The ‘Grapher’ data acquisition software for use with the Unilab Interface has no facility for screen-dumping graphs directly to a dot-matrix printer. A short program in BBC Basic is shown here with suggested custom modification to users’ requirements.
29(17) D.C. amplifier with offset
The circuit described has a gain of 5 and an offset of -2.5 V. It can be used as a general purpose voltage amplifier or as a means of tailoring the standard 0 to 1 V outputs from transducers to the 2.5 V input range of VELA.
29(27) Surplus Equipment Offer
32(30) Trade News
Harris take over INS, Resilient foam, Change of address, Special balance offers
32(30) Notice Board
ASE Annual Meeting
33(31) Opinion
Triumph over the beast
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Summer Saturdays, Biotechnology symposium, Readers’ letter 1
4(2) Opinion
SEB Panels’ comments on Bulletin 159
6(4) Continuous recording of velocity
By coupling a precision motor, which is used as a generator, to one of the wheels of’ a dynamics tralley and taking the output signal to a data logger a continuous record of velocity versus time can be obtained.
9(7) The protactinium generator: stoppering the flask
Some of the flasks in our equipment list in Bulletin 159 were reported to us as leaking at the stopper.
10(8) Interfacing Notes
10(8) software standards – minimal, acceptable standards for interfacing software
14(12) interfacing publications: support for training & users – Here are our initial attempts at identifying what is available, on a national basis, to support interfacing for instrumentation and control on the BBC B and Master.
17(15) Bulletin Index —numbers 150 to 159
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
Marketable mediocrity
5(3) Introduction
Easter holiday, ASE annual meeting, Surplus offer, No Comment
6(4) CLEAPSE Guides
We have recently received the following new or revised publications from our sister organisation CLEAPSE School Science Service:
6(4) Help with VELA
There are now several, and in the jargon “more friendly” publications to help the user.
7(5) Science and special needs
We promised recently to publish a list of, fairly recent, references on making science more accessible to pupils with special educational needs. We give below a first attempt at such a list:
8(6) lonising radiations
In Bulletin 158 we made reference to a number of documents on ionising radiations which were to be issued at the turn of the year. P11 of these have since been published and issued to Scottish EAs.
8(6) ASE publications: new edition of “Safeguards”
The ASE has recently published a ninth edition of its well known and authoritative safety publication: “Safeguards in the School Laboratory”..
9(7) New primary publication
A new ASE safety document aimed at primary education. This is entitled “Be Safe!”
9(7) Biotechnology
An article on safety in school biotechnology appeared in the January issue of “Education in Science”, No.126. The article provides a useful overview of the subject.
9(7) Electric heating mantles
Possible problems with mantles manufactured by Electrothermal Ltd.
10(8) Gas taps, anti—rotation devices
An accident due to partial unscrewing of a laboratory gas tap from its supply pipe. How to prevent recurrence.
11(9) Stream flow measurement
Brief descriptions are given of a number of simple methods for investigating flow in burns and streams. s a result of field trials, an indication is given of the effectiveness of such methods. Pointers to curricular context and to further reading are provided.
15(13) Conductivity probes
Two alternative designs are given. The special point of interest about both is the simple way in which they discriminate between solutions of varying conductivity.
17(15) Ionising radiations – further notes on implementing the new regulations
Distribution of’ circulars, Disposal of sealed sources, Equipment list
19(17) Surplus Equipment Offers
22(20) Broken Bunsen burners
Recently Kincorth Academy sent us a simple plan for restoring disjointed burners back to full health.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
Ionising radiations and the management of risk
4(2) Editorial
Hiccups, hiatus & hernias, Jam tomorrow?
5(3) Introduction
Double jeopardy, Saturday mornings, Cost index, Surplus offers: conditions of sale, No Comment, Comment
6(4) CLEAPSE Guides
We have recently received the following new or revised publications from our sister organisation CLEAPSE School Science Service.
6(4) VELA Booklet
Adrian Watt, of Edinburgh Academy and the Scottish VELA Users’ Group, has produced a small volume on “Demonstrations & Experiments using VELA”.
7(9) Ionising radiations – The element of risk
We have recently estimated by calculations the probable whole body doses resulting from typical practical sessions with school-type sources. These reveal the somewhat comforting news that likely doses are extremely small
10(8) Bunsen flame profiles
The temperature profiles flame are examined by the listed in ascending order of sophistication.
15(13) Amplifier for type K thermocouple
The type K thermocouple described in the Bunsen profile article has a sensitivity of about 40,p.V/°C. By applying the signal to an amplifier with a gain of25 you can boost the sensitivity to 1 mV/°C
16(14) Radioactive decay experiments using protactinium-234
The protactinium generator should be used as a substitute for the now prohibited Thoron generator for studying radioactive decay.
19(17) h.t. transmission lines
We have for some time been concerned that many teachers demonstrate the working of the National Grid at voltages which are potentially lethal.
21(19) Ring main models
A ring main model should show that if appliances are wired in parallel there can be an appreciable voltage drop across cables which transmit power from appliance to appliance. When the ring is made any voltage drop in cables becomes insignificant.
13(21) Jupiter
The present position and brilliance of’ Jupiter provide a good opportunity to start off pupils viewing the night sky.
24(22) Surplus Equipment Offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Editorial
Learning outcomes
4(2) Introduction
One short of a full load, energy conversions, Saturday morning closures, Comment, No Comment (Science Education)
6(4) Resource News
‘shooting your Beeb, Schools Affiliation Scheme, Salters’ Institute Awards
6(24) AIDS addenda
The Laboratory Safeguards Committee of the Association for Science Education (ASE) has published its own note in “Education in Science”
6(24) Disposable toothbrushes
Possible use of disposable toothbrushes and a supplier.
7(5) HSE publications
Two new publications which should be of direct interest to science advisers and safety officers and may prove useful to teachers as background material:
8(6) ‘National Grid’ experiments
HSE in Scotland has recently sent a circular to Scottish EAs with warnings and conditions relating to such demonstrations.
9(7) Biology Note – Zany energy conversions
An energy conversion series, unusual in a biological context is described, viz.: chemical energy – light – electricity – kinetic energy.
12(10) Chemistry Note – Peanut power – letting off steam
If all we need is a simple experience of the relatively large amounts of energy stored within a thing like a peanut then the following, more dramatic, illustration is a good one.
10(8) Chemistry Note – On fruit and fuel (light, luminescence and lemons)
Energy as a permeating theme of chemistry is briefly discussed. Three specific, and somewhat unusual, practical illustrations of energy conversions are described. (Chemiluminescence, Lemon Cell, Electrolytic fuel call)
17(15) Physics Note – Hydro power
Two designs of model overshot water wheels are outlined. Two applications, one in generating electricity, the other in driving a pump, are described. A calculation of the efficiency in the first application is provided.
21(19) Trade News
Harris drop carriage charges, Get a ‘walkover’
21(19) Announcements
New Vela centre, New Napier degree, Biotechnology in the curriculum
3(1) Opinion
On learning outcomes
3(1) Introduction
Easter closure, Big bids from little acorns
4(2) Safety Note – AIDS and school science
The new Scottish Office publication, “AIDS: Guidance for Educational Establishments in Scotland”. be available in every Scottish school and college. We think it gives an excellent, balanced overview.
5(3) “Science teacher fined”
Teacher fined after explosion reducing copper oxide with hydrogen.
6(4) Biology Note – sizing cells – a follow up
In Bulletin 155 we described an idea for a pupil investigation and set a simple problem. this was to use basic techniques in microscopy to estimate the average length and width of onion epidermal cells. We hinted at some solutions and promised to give more detail in this issue.
7(5) Chemistry Note – electrolysis
Lead electrodes have an advantage over the commonly used graphite electrodes in that the expected oxygen is indeed formed at the anode. Methods of making these and fitting them into cells of several designs are described.
12(10) Physics Note – to show that ordinary white light has an ultra violet component
If using an ordinary, broadband, white light source and conventional optics it is highly probable that the radiation coming from the source and transmitted through the optics will have a near ultra violet component. We have recently tested this hypothesisand have found a simple means of demonstrating that this is so.
13(11) Resolution, and the human senses
The premise is that mans’ senses of seeing, hearing and feeling are logarithmic in nature, and that in general man can just distinguish between fractional differences of around 10%. This article is an adaptation of an idea seen in ‘The Physics Teacher’
13(11) Graphical symbols
The British Standards Institution (BSI) have recently revised their special publication on graphical symbols.
14(12) Thermistor circuits
We are having another look at the thermistor bridge from Bulletin 150 because we think it is an extremely useful little circuit.
15(13) Surplus equipment offers
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
In pursuit of the end of the rainbow
3(1) Introduction
ASE Scottish Region Annual Meeting, Cost Index, Ross & Lamont
4(2) Safety Note – Heat resistant cable for soldering irons
there is a chance that the hot tip will come into contact with the lead and burn through the insulation.
4(2) Safety Note – Sulphur dioxide canisters
How to deal with corrosion.
5(3) Biology Notes – Practical investigations
5(3) Biology Notes – Sizing cells
We were sent recently an idea on measuring plant cells.
6(4) Biology Notes – Biotechnology news
The National Centre for School Biotechnology in Reading has published the first edition of its “Newsletter”
7(5) Electronic balances – a review
An article on weighing requirements in Scottish school science courses and a review of the models currently on the market.
19(17) Interfacing software for electronic balances – a review
Software packages for interfacing four popular makes of balance to the BBC micro’ were examined. However only three are reported on here because the fourth package gave much trouble.
24(22) Kynar Piezo Film – a novel transducer
Kynar Piezo Film is a new material which can be used for many types of transducer. Its piezo-electric property will convert a mechanical force into an electrical signal.
26(24) Force-time plots and measurement of impulse
The force-time transient exerted on a ball as it hits a surface can be investigated by letting the ball drop on Kynar Piezo Film.
34(32) Measurement of long wave infra-red radiation
Kynar Piezo Film is exceedingly sensitive to changes in temperature; it behaves as a reliable detector of long wave infra red radiation and can be used for quantitative measurement.
36(34) Surplus equipment offers
37(35) Trade News
Power supplies for electronics
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Errata, grovel gravel, Delays, fawn fawn, Festive season closure, ASE annual meeting, 1987
4(2) Resource News
CLEAPSE guides, Environmental education, Surplus, other sources, No Comment
5(3) HSE pocket cards
Two sets of useful cards: “Do you work with chemicals and other materials in educational establishments?”, and “Guidance to cleaning staff in educational establishments”
6(4) Video equipment in science
Science teachers are encouraged to seek involvement in the selection of school video equipment. Features which make such equipment more useful in science are outlined. An account is given of one teacher’s experience and experimentation with video microscopy.
12(10) Interface reviews
This article updates the main developments in commercial interfaces and software for education, since the review article published in Bulletin 137.
30(28) Trade News
A proper degree of loopiness, Plastic pipe cutter, “Standard Science Equipment”, Soil test kits,
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Editorial – Fellow farewell! “MeMo 5” Saturday opening, Erratum, Olympus microscopes,
4(2) Opinion
What do they mean?
6(4) Resource News
Primary Science, “Animals in Schools” Presentation aids for chemists, Canolfan y dechnoleg wahanol, Environmental & Conservation Resources
7(5) Glass thermometer protection
Two methods of thermometer protection are outlined; the first and more expensive option uses brass slot cases, the second a cheap and cheerful application of heat—shrink sleeving. An earlier bulletin article on an anti-roll device is also referenced
9(7) The brachistochrone
Pupils may be surprised that the quickest means of travel between two points is not always by the shortest route.
11(9) Curie point motor
The Curie point is the transition temperature between paramagnetism and ferromagnetism.
13(11) Notes for CSYS Physics
D—A and A—D conversion.
14(12) pH meters for Standard Grade
This article outlines possible Strategies for the provision of pH measurement, particularly at 53 and S4. It includes a tabulated market survey and précis results from pH meter evaluations
24(22) Surplus Equipment
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Summer break, Energy efficiency year, Cost index
4(2) Burning gloves
Of the laboratory gloves commonly found in the catalogues particularly the disposable types, the majority are quite flammable.
4(2) Solar cells
We have now found a possible alternative source of solar cells and have samples on order.
5(3) Digital meters
New developments in A-D converter chip and LCD display technology have led to a number of reasonably inexpensive digital student meters and multimeters corning on the school market. An evaluation of student meters is described and a survey of digital multimeters is included. The place of such meters in school science is discussed with reference to available ranges and features.
17(15) Nutrient film technique
Nutrient film technique, a method used in commercial horticulture, is suggested as a possible illustration of some techniques of applied biology at school level. A basis for a small scale pilot system is described. Possible educational uses of the system, biological as well as technological, are suggested. Further development routes are indicated.
21(19) Lamp frame
An idea of a simple lamp frame, to provide supplementary lighting and so extend the school season for plant physiology experiments,
24(22) Trade News
Microscopes, New to us, Digital deluge?
25(23) Microelectronics Monographs
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Comment
An allegory
4(2) Introduction
Editorial policy, Data Protection Act, Microelectronics Monographs, No Comment, Surplus, For Sale
6(4) Don’t blow it!
Almost as an aside in Bulletin 148, we warned against the practice of fitting mains colour-coded cable to devices designed to operate at low voltage.
6(4) Inflammatory literature?
Recently available is a useful little leaflet from the Health and Safety Executive, entitled “Storage and Use of Highly Flammable Liquids in Educational Establishments”.
7(5) Vital capacity apparatus
A simple spirometer/vital capacity apparatus, based on two plastic containers, was described in Bulletin 130 (March, 1982). We have recently received details of an even simpler design.
8(6) Electronics Notes
Comments on ‘A.C. current measurement’
10(8) Quartz crystal oscillator
Oscillators based on the quartz crystal are commonly used to provide a stable frequency standard. Their ubiquity, however, beguiles the fact that they are not the easiest of components to work with. In this article, a dependable circuit is given which uses such a crystal.
12(10) The block and tackle
I have, from time at sea, long marvelled at the effectiveness of a single turn round a spar or capstan. This demonstration results from that experience.
12(10) Measurement of g
An ever so simple arrangement for measuring the acceleration due to gravity
14(12) Cold light source
Microscopic creatures can often be disturbed by the heat given off by the illuminating lamp. A way of overcoming the problem is by siting the lamp remote from the microscope and piping the light to the object via a fibre optic bundle. Such a system is called a ‘cold light source’. The construction is described below.
14(12) Jig for sharpening screwdrivers
The trick is to run the edge being sharpened along a flat stone in such a way that the shaft of the implement is held at a constant angle with the surface of the stone
15(13) Mixing of aquadag
Commercially prepared aquadag is available at low cost, but for those who are interested in preparing their own, and from enquiries we know some are, here is a pointer to the recipe.
16(14) Trade News
New Scottish company, Something new, something old, VELA, Changes of name, Changes of address, Another takeover, Expanded range, Spillages, Second—hand equipment, Parts for Torbal balances, Two—way valves, Glassblowing again – repair of condensers, Microtechnology Inset Team
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Foreword
21st anniversary edition.
6(4) Introduction
Special edition, Cover colour , Index, Specialists’ signposts, RSC offer, CLEAPSE Guides
7(5) Environmental Notes
7(5) Environmental parameters, in general & pH in particular
We deal first with the tricky business of pH measurements in natural waters.
10(8) Portable magnetic stirrers
Edinburgh Academy Science Department recently showed us a battery powered, magnetic stirrer suitable for use both in field and laboratory.
11(9) Conductivity meters
The theory of conductivity measurement is outlined briefly with advice on water sampling practice in the field. Three conductivity meters and four conductivity probes are evaluated.
16(14) Bridge circuits
Bridge networks are often used in out of balance conditions with resistive sensors. Crucial to design work is the question of linearization, a property which is shown to be dependent on a careful choice of bridge.
21(19) Active bridges
There are some who consider the active bridge to be overlooked and undervalued. Two types are shown and some indication given of their usefulness.
23(21) Applications
There is a very side range of uses to which bridges are put in instrumentation.
23(21) Platinum film resistors
Platinum film resistors have a wide operating range which extends from -250°C to +850°C.
14(22) Strain gauge
The strain gauge by way of contrast operates with very small shifts in resistance.
25(23) Thermistors
Thermistors are semiconductor devices with either a negative or a positive temperature coefficient
28(26) Interfacing
Interfacing with active bridge circuits.
32(30) Surplus Equipment
33(31) History Notes
41(31) Index —bulletins 140 to 149
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Obituary – Mr.Hugh Medine, ASE Annual Meetings, UK ASE Meeting, ASE Scottish Meeting, Cost index, Did you know, Have you read
4(2) Opinion
“Ad-hoccery makes a mockery or “Enough is Enough”
7(5) AIDS and school science
Increasingly teachers and others have been approaching us directly for advice and information on the HTLV-III virus. We have answered those enquiries to the extent of our current knowledge.
8(6) Model steam engines
Following three serious accidents in England we have been requested to provide a safety summary on model steam engines of the type used in schools to demonstrate energy conversions.
10(9) Syringe modification: anti-water pistol
One of the commonest used for syringesis that of dispensing measured volumes of liquids, particularly in Si and 52. Misuse of syringes is too tempting for many of these pupils.
11(9) Protection of ammeters
Mr Haggart, a teacher in Galashiels Academy, has sent us an ingenious solution to the problem of how to protect ammeters from the effects of an overload current.
13(11) a.c. current measurement
An addendum to the articles in Bulletin 147
15(13) Velocity of sound in air
This is an account of a way of determining the velocity of sound in air by measuring the time taken for sound to travel a set distance. The apparatus has home built elements comprising two sound activated switches and the processing circuitry required to operate a digital timer
22(20) ASE Annual Meeting
A report and trade review of the meeting in York.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Safety surfeit, Festive season closure, Erratum, No Comment, Comment
4(2) poisonous plant material
Accidental poisoning in children through the ingestion of toxic plant material has a long recorded history. Incidents have been sporadically reported in the educational literature for as long as most of us can remember. We give an update.
5(3) Petrol oxygen explosion
An incident and how to avoid further ones.
7(5) Bunsen valves
Dangers and how to minimise them
8(6) Gas tap fittings
We have received a report of a recent incident in England where a gas explosion resulted in injuries to five pupils and a teacher. The prime cause of the incident is believed to have been failure of anti-rotation devices on the gas tap fitting.
8(6) Picric acid
Earlier this year there was a considerable stooshie over the problems with the disposal of picric acid (2,4,6-trinitrophenol). We offer some advice.
9(7) ethyl benzoate hydrolysis
Despite the use of anti-bump granules, on a number of different occasions the flask contents had erupted violently through the top of the reflux condenser. We investigated and offer suggestions.
10(8) Safety signs
The period of grace given for older signs already in situ before 1st of January, 1981 and which did not comply with the new specifications comes to an end on 31st December, 1985.
11(9) “Microbiology” an HMI guide
A brief description of this useful publication.
11(9) Enzyme technology kits
A number of kits are analysed for relevance to current and possible new Scottish biology courses. Reference is made to earlier, more detailed reviews by another author as well as to a proposed SSSERC Guide.
19(17) Flux gate magnetometer
The flux gate magnetometer is a highly sensitive, vector reading, magnetic instrument. A description Is given of its operation and historical development, Its relevance and possible importance 1n physics education is discussed and some applications are described.
30(28) Ross & Lamont model house
A review of the various versions of this ‘house’.
33(31) SS5ERC “Microelectronics Monographs”
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Saturday opening, Arrangements for visitors, Surplus equipment offer.
4(2) Opinion
“Domesday’ physics?
6(4) Publications List
8(6) Light meter summary
The following table is a summary of data obtained from the evaluations of five light meters. This forms part of a wider examination into the theory and techniques of environmental Measurement.
9(7) Corrosion
Some background on the economic importance of corrosion prevention is outlined. Two further sources of educational ideas and information are given. Details are provided of procedures for examining two different aspects of corrosion and its prevention.
13(11) A.C. current measurement
Technical difficulties are presented by the accurate measurement of a.c. current in the milliamp range. In general this is due to signal degradation caused by the rectifier diodes within the a.c. milliammeter.
16(14) Surplus Equipment Offer
19(17) Power supplies Part 1
This is the first of an occasional series of articles on the design and construction of voltage regulated power supplies.
24(22) Trade News
Meters, Tools and materials, Thermometers, Catalogues.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Susan Goodbye! Summer Saturdays, Royal Society of Chemistry Research Fund, Erratum Bulletin 145, Cost Index, Retiral Tribute (J.A.R. Hughes OBE BSc)
5(3) CLEAPSE Guides
CLEAPSE guides that may be borrowed.
6(4) Pollution – a practical pot-pourri
A number of mare recently developed Scottish curricular materials suggest some novel experimental and analytical techniques. This short note deals with two such activities, the effects of air pollution on plants and the detection or demonstration of lead pollution
8(6) Hydrogen cylinder incident
An experienced technician was filling balloons of hydrogen from a cylinder when the stream of gas ignited to produce a large flare. There had been no obvious sources of ignition in the room.
8(6) The burning of hydrogen
How to carry out this activity effectively and safely.
11(9) Interfacing Notes – Quiz game control
A construction project for a panel-game style, first-on-the-button controller, using a BBC micro.
13(11) The fine-beam cathode ray tube
An American journal, “The Physics Teacher”, has run a series of articles on investigations with a Teltron, fine-beam, cathode ray tube. We would like to draw your attention to this series.
13(11) Nuclear emulsions
The use of nuclear sensitive emulsions.
13(11) NiCad Cells – Help
Help required into a survey into the usage of rechangeable NiCad Batteries.
16(14) Shaft encoder circuits
A technical description of two shaft encoder systems is given. Whilst being useful in their own right as notes on instrumentation the main purpose is as applications of some common electronics principles.
26(24) Trade News
New oscilloscope, Oscilloscope repairs, polycarbonate sheet, uv lamps
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Surplus galore! Ecology courses
3(1) Methanal (formaldehyde)
Further guidance on the health effects of exposure.
5(3) Heart rate monitors
Three basic types of transducer together with broad categories of instrumentation for monitoring heart rate are described. Some other applications of certain items of equipment are mentioned. General questions of safety in electronic measurement in human physiology are discussed A summary table showing some selected features of equipment falling within the school price range is given.
12(10) Linearity of radiation detectors and the inverse square law
A comparative study of the linearity of several radiation detectors is given and the effects of this investigation on inverse square law experimental results are discussed.
15(13) Infra-red detector
A description is given of the design of a monitor of near infra-red based on the TIL 100 photodiode. This monitor proves, under the two—lamp test, to give a goodish linear response and is therefore suitable for quantitative work with infra-red radiation.
19(17) Surplus Equipment Offers
22(20) Electronics Notes
22(20) Trade News
Changes of address and name.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Auf weidersehn tech.! Easter closure, Scottish Region ASE Annual Meeting, 1985, Cost Index, Biochemical Society: Schoolteacher Fellowships, Microelectronics monographs, The biter bit? No comment
5(3) Opinion —Kits in technology education
Problems with the usage of kits leading to a restriction of activities and hence a narrowing of curricular options.
7(5) CLEAPSE Guides
New and revised CLEAPSE guides available for borrowing.
7(5) Accident report – metal oxide reduction
A crucible filled with a mixture of zinc powder and copper(II)oxide was being heated when the crucible shattered violently, the detonation being heard by a colleague four floors down.
9(7) Stomatal counts
The traditional method for investigating stomata pattern and distribution is by a leaf peel technique, using, nail varnish. However this can be, in the wrong hands, very messy. We have recently been trialling an alternative technique based on the use of ‘cellulose acetate’ sheet and propanone (acetone).
10(8) Microscope spares
Spares availability for Carton Optical microscopes,
11(9) Microelectronics For All
We review the MFA programme. This is a short course on digital electronics produced by the Microelectronics Education Programme
19(17) Concrete beams
Methods for creating suitable sized concrete beams for testing as part of Standard Grade Science.
21(19) Threadstretcher
One of the problems common to all rigs for stretching threads or metal wires is the mode of anchorage. We offer a solution.
23(21) Stretching metal wires
An alternative to the device shown in the Standard Grade Science exemplar materials is described here.
25(23) ASE, Annual Meeting 1985
Some personal impressions from the meeting at Keele, Telecommunications in practice (Resources in the joint ASE and British Telecom project), Experimenting with industry (a project organised jointly by the ASE and the Standing Conference on School Science and Technology.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Planning Committee, new members, Festive season closure, Technicians and the “Bulletin”, Buletin 143 – a pH special, SSSERC software service,
4(2) Surplus Equipment Offer
precision potentiometers5(30
5(3) CLEAPSE Guides
More revised CLEAPSE guides to borrow.
5(3) Dual range ovens
We have been asked to draw again the attention of readers to the need for care in the use of these devices. Particular care is needed in the use of dual purpose oven/incubators. This is doubly important where the device has a “Hi/Lo” range switch.
6(4) Encapsulated mains power supplies
Our concern is specifically with the usage in schools of encapsulated mains to low voltage supplies. They sometimes come in the form of mains adaptors; the 3 prong, 13 A plugs being an integral fitment to the device.
8(6) Microscope spares
Spare parts for the COC Models C & CA
9(7) Re-usable plastic Petri dishes
Field tests of re-usable polycarbonate petri dishes.
10(8) pH probe/Beeb interface
A description is given of the design, construction and performance of a home built pH meter comprising pH electrode, signal conditioning system and BBC microcomputer. Unlike conventional metery its hardware is kept very simple. Most of the signal conditioning is achieved by software, the hardware part consists of two elements only, a stable voltage reference and a very high impedance voltage follower.
21(19) Constant flow burette
A common way of producing a trace of the pH of a solution against the volume of titrant added to it has been simply to plot pH against time and hope that the rate of addition is fairly constant. This may be approximately true for the addition of the first 10-15 cm3 delivered from a full burette.
23(21) Measurement of gravitational acceleration
This is readily achieved with electronic timers, including VELA and GiPSI, using the traditional method of dropping a ball bearing through a height a and measuring the time interval of fall
24(22) Trade News
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Surplus equipment and publications offers, “SIR” and “Interfacing Extracts”, Periodic tables
3(1) Opinion
School animals and weekends
4(2) Animals in schools
This article seeks to apply established principles with hopefully a dash of common sense, to a specific operational problem, namely the appropriate care of animals in schools, particularly at times when the school is ‘closed’.
8(6) Ionising radiations
The “Education (Amendment) (Scotland) Act, 1984”. did not receive a great deal of publicity, despite the subject matter: two normally controversial issues, education and nuclear hazards. We explain the effects.
8(6) Safety publications
CLEAPSE/SSERC safety publications for sale.
9(7) Materials testing rig, a review
The device reviewed is a multi-purpose rig developed and marketed by the Scottish firm of Ross & Lamont. The rig was designed to carry out a range of tests and so allow the one device to meet the needs for such testing in the “Foundation Science” Core Topic “Materials”.
12(10) Offord microscope booklet
We review Offord’s recently published booklet, “A world to discover with a microscope — Book 1, Making a Start”.
13(11) Switching
SSERC offers support for the Microelectronics, Computing and the Curriculum (MCC) Project.
19(17) Surplus Equipment Offers
23(21) Precision motors
We are now able to offer additional sets of notes on different aspects of servo mechanisms.
23(21) Trade News
25(23) SCET Microelectronics Project Materials
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Normal service resumed asap, Research fellow, Scottish young scientist of the year, MEDC courses, Saturday opening, Cost index, Errata bulletin 140
5(3) CLEAPSE Guides
More CLEAPSE guides that may be borrowed from SSERC
5(3) Seeing the light – a shattering experience
An accident involving a l2V auto bulb.
5(3) “Networking”, an MCC report
6(4) Science and the Handicapped Pupil
There has been a developing policy of integrating pupils with special needs into ordinary neighbourhood schools. This is coupled with a very proper concern that such pupils share as fully as possible in all of the curricular elements on offer in the school. SSERC offers some advice.
7(5) Project Suggestions
At this time of year potential CSYS students begin looking for ideas for projects. We have a few ideas.
7(5) Egg Races
We would draw your attention to a recent publication from the British Association for the Advancement of Science and the British Association Young Scientists (BAYS), entitled “Ideas for Egg Races and other problem-solving activities.”.
8(6) Solar power
Simple demonstrations of motors driven by solar cells.
10(8) Toothpaste recipes
We publish additional information and recipes for pupil preparation of small samples of toothpaste.
12(10) Thermistor applications
Thermistor applications are presented as one possible easy way for biology teachers into the construction and use of simple circuitry. The advantages of thermistors in detecting small temperature differences of physiological significance are outlined, together with some of the associated snags.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Surplus equipment, Easter closures, Useful addresses & references.
3(1) Explosion in a fume cupboard
A teacher was heating magnesium powder and copper(ll) oxide in a crucible inside a fume cupboard, when it exploded.
4(2) ASE announcements
ASE Safeguards committee pronounces on Bell-jar impolsions, 12v heaters and preparation of chlorine.
4(2) HSE Guidance Notes
New guidance on PVC dust and using portable electrical appliances.
4(2) Microprojection and CCTV microscopy
How to allow several people at once to view microscope specimens.
5(3) A gaseous equilibrium
The equilibrium N2O4 — 2NO2 is usually examined as one whose equilibrium position can be altered by easily applied changes in conditions. We show a way of quantifying some of these observations.
7(5) Rubber rings
You might find Elastrator rubber rings for the I castration of lambs and young bulls very useful in science laboratories!
8(6) BBC analogue port
This article deals with calibration, precision and accuracy and will be relevant to other devices such as the I-Pack analogue port for the ZX-Spectrum.
13(11) Offset zero
Many data capture devices and analogue to digital converters have limited usefulness in that they can neither sample negative going signals, nor selectively amplify a small signal superimposed on top of a large d.c. component. This article outlines the principle of operation of an offset zero control which overcomes these limitations.
17(15) Fibre optics
Fibre optics provides a rich quarry for project based electronics.
24(22) Gaseous equilibrium—gas syringe support rig
Details of how to make a support rig.
24(22) Getting light into optical fibres
These notes describe the construction of a jig for holding together an optical fibre and LED.
27(25) Surplus Equipment
28(26) Trade News
30(28) Index to Bulletins 130-139
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
ASE Annual meetings, CLEAPSE 21st, Cost index, CLEAPSE Guides
4(2) Syphons and cylinder
An unusual accident concerning a sulphur dioxide syphon.
4(2) Bell-jars
Yet another report of an implosion of an evacuated bell-jar.
5(3) Checklists for apparatus
We outline a framework for decision making, designing and documenting equipment needs for “Standard Grade” implementation.
8(6) Servo mechanisms
We have specially purchased a stock of quality motors fitted with very large reduction gearboxes.
8(6) Model loudspeaker
We have shown this model at a number of Foundation Science equipment exhibitions and have been surprised that people have not come across it before.
8(6) Model microphone and pulse detector
This idea of using a reflective opto switch as an analogue device came to us from Malcolm Ferguson of Edinburgh University physics department.
11(9) Variable focal length mirror
Using metalised polyester film.
12(10) Interfacing Notes
Erratum in “6502 Interfacing”
12(10) Trade News
20(18) Electronics & microelectronics course
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3()(Insert) Microelectronic Applications Projects in Schools: Two Year Fellowship 1984-1986
5(1) Introduction
Technical Officer, Planning Committee, Evaluation samples offer, Christmas and New Year closure, Pick another number
5(1) Opinion
Caveat Emptor
5(1) CLEAPSE guides
A small number available to borrow.
6(2) accident reports
Hydrogen explosion – again! Chlorine, Exploding batteries, Conc. sulphuric acid – again!
7(2) Electrical safety
Modification for a Russian fast response chart recorder.
7(2) Energy in the home
Investigation of heat losses in model houses and of some ways of reducing those losses.
13(9) VELA – a review
A review of the Versatile VELA datalogger.
18(14) Surplus Equipment
19(15) Model houses
How to make the model houses for the energy experiments.
21(17) Trade News
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Congratulations, thanks and farewells, Saturday mornings
3(1) ASE Safeguards announcements
3(1) Laboratory centrifuges
The recently published British Standard specification “Safety Requirements for Laboratory Centrifuges” (BS4402:1982), does cover small bench top centrifuges of the type used in schools. However, we are anxious to ensure that schools and education authorities avoid overkill in reacting to its provisions.
4(2) Sodium lamp holder
A pupil using a Sodium Lamp in an experiment with a spectrometer, received an electric shock when the shade came into contact with the pins of the lampholder.
5(3) Wave power
Three alternative model devices for producing electricity from the energy of waves are illustrated.
6(4) Wave maker
A powered device for generating the necessary waves above
7(5) Metal bending apparatus
We were requested to provide a d-i-y design so that those who wished to do so, might construct their own tester.
7(5) Interfacing Notes
Review of microcomputer data capture devices
18(16) Wave power generators
How to construct the generators mentioned earlier.
23(21) Metal bending apparatus
How to construct the apparatus mentioned earlier.
25(23) Trade News
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Development Officer, Saturday mornings, Cost index, Research in schools, CLEAPSE Guides (More guides to borrow), Review – ‘The Gass Book”
3(1) preparation of chlorine
The attention of readers is drawn to this report, from the Laboratory Safeguards Sub-committee of the ASE. Discussed is a hitherto unsuspected hazard, the formation of dichlorine oxide(Cl2O), during the preparation of chlorine by the action of hydrochloric acid on sodium chlorate(I) solution.
4(2) Pipette fillers
Badly cut fingers during the fitting of the pipette onto the filler
4(2) Silicon tetrachloride
Just as a teacher was about to open a bottle of the chemical it exploded, sending the contents over the room.
4(2) Turbid cube substitute
A simple turbid block substitute based on the lid of a cover-slip box.
5(3) Skin sensitivity
A template for making ‘patent’ skin, touch-sensitivity testers.
6(4) Fabric wear testers
A design for a relatively cheap. robust and easily constructed fabric wear tester.
7(5) Interfacing Notes
‘ Beeb’ user port part 2 – timing
16(14) Fabric wear testers
How to make the testers described earlier
20(18) Trade News
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Exciting times? Balance in the bulletin
4(2) ZX Spectrum power supplies
We have been informed by Griffin and George Ltd., that certain Sinclair ZX Spectrums may have been supplied with mains adaptor power supplies which could be faulty. Under certain conditions, this fault could be a danger.
4(2) A Savonius rotor
An alternative ‘windmill’ design to the ‘normal’ one is is the Savonius rotor
6(4) UV lamp spares
6(4) Constant volume dispensers
6(4) Some laser experiments
Optical transmission of an audio signal, Reflection off water waves
9(7) Interfacing Notes – have you read?
We have produced a reading list of articles on interfacing.
9(7) User port BBC model B
The first of a series of articles on the ‘Beeb’ model B. We thought it would be helpful to provide information on d-i-y interfacing.
18(16) Surplus Equipment Offer
19(17) SSERC Display Laboratory
The SSERC Display Laboratory is again open for business after repairs.
19(17) Trade News
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
ASE annual meetings, Cost index, Money, money, money! 1.
4(2) Opinion
Subjects on which a lot of ‘‘rubbish’’ is spoken.
5(3) Re-usable plastic Petri dishes 3
We examine the reusability and sterilisation of polycarbonate Petri dishes.
6(4) Electron direction indicator
The electron direction indicator tells a pupil directly at which electrodes oxidation and reduction are occurring and also shows the direction of electron flow.
7(5) Chemicals costs
Variation between suppliers
8(6) Trade News
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Surplus equipment, Festive season closure, Saturday mornings, Planning committee, Obituary, Mr. J.N.Emery,M.A.
4(2) CLEAPSE Guides
More New or revised guides to borrow
4(2) Air-guns again
Following the publication of a note of the hazards of using air-rifles in the lab. we have been sent an idea on remote firing which, it is suggested, might further reduce the hazards.
4(2) ‘It makes you deaf, you know”
An incident involving a pupil using earphones with a signal generator
4(2) Murphy’s Law
An explosion in a zinc/acid type hydrogen generator
5(3) More cautionary tales
Sulphur/carbon mix, Zinc/sulphur reaction, Flash powder
5(3) SSSERC standard hammer
We have developed a simple apparatus setup to standardise material strength testing.
6(4) Thermocouple thermometer
We give below details of a simple thermocouple which will allow a wide range of temperatures to be measured with acceptable accuracy.
7(5) Marine aquaria
Our response to enquiries on setting up and maintaining marine aquaria.
10(8) Tidal aquarium
Our original design for a tidal aquarium appeared in Bulletin 6 The original constructional details were for glass tanks and used siphon bottles etc. Since then we have refined and changed the design several times and have decided to publish an updated version.
12(10) Experimental errors – the measurement of g
Following on from the article on computer controlled experiments in Bulletin 132, we have picked out one for further discussion here, the measurement of g.
17(15) Constant current supply
We usually expect power supplies to be constant voltage devices, ignoring the effect of internal resistance.
19(17) Surplus Equipment
21(19) In the Workshop
How to make the SSERC Standard Hammer
22(20) Trade News
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Surplus equipment, Foundation science notes, ‘Salters’ Institute, Science Interfacing register, Cost index, Silver nitrate
3(1) Opinion
Plain English in science
4(2) Fume cupboards
The Department of Education and Science (DES) has recently issued ‘Design Note Number 29 – Fume Cupboards in Schools’.
4(2) Air-rifle hazard
Example of a potentially hazardous use of an air rifle.
5(3) Bell jar implosion
A near-miss in an experiment involving the evacuation of a bell jar.
5(3) Another near miss
A close shave during the disposal of an old sample of phosphorus pentachloride.
5(3) ‘Blazing goggles’
A potential danger when goggles are being used by younger pupils.
6(4) Safety in school science’ articles
ASE publishes a collection in one volume of the articles which have appeared in “Education in Science” over the last four years.
6(4) Pulse rate measurement
In certain circumstances an aid to rapid, reasonably accurate pulse measurement could be very useful.
8(6) Petrol/oxygen explosion
We first described a safe method for such a demonstration in Bulletin 22. Work for a trial school has given rise to the simpler, more convenient set up.
8(6) Silver nitrate
Because of recent high price levels for silver nitrate the reduction of the costs of using this compound has become a topical subject.
10(8) Microburettes
By far the greatest expenditure on silver nitrate falls in titrations for CSYS work. The feasibility of reducing the scale of these operations by the use of much smaller burettes was thus closely examined.
12910) Titration curves
Some experiments lend themselves readily to interfacing, others may not. We seek here merely to illustrate some of the general features of experimental work that may make rewarding the insertion of a computer into the experimental system, using titrations as an example.
15(13) Surplus Equipment Offer
16(14) DIY microburette
Construction of the Mk-1 DIY microburette
18(16) Trade News
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
(A ‘Disposal’ special)
3(1) Introduction
Surplus Equipment – Ballot, Disposal article, Eclipse – again
3(2) Disposal of Waste Chemicals and Potentially Hazardous Materials
This article gives advice and guidance to teachers and technicians who may be handling the unwanted materials and be undertaking some DIY methods of disposal in a manner recommended by their employer.
8(6) Appendix – Recommended DIY methods for disposal of chemicals
Detailed advice for chemicals, broken down by class/type.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
New Assistant Director, Easter Holiday closing, ASE annual meeting Scottish Region, ‘Hazcards’, Equipment questionnaire, Eclipse of the sun
3(1) CLEAPSE Guides
New or revised guides to borrow.
4(2) Organising school science for safety
Originally published in Education in Science January 1982. We offer advice on how to organise your science department to maximise safety.
6(4) Methanal (formaldehyde)
SSERC has been trawling the literature, researching possible carcinogenicity. We present our findings.
8(6) Accident report
An accident involving the escape of bromine from a demonstration diffusion apparatus. This
9(7) Liquefied petroleum gases (LPG).
Instutions using LPG should read Guidance Note CS4 from the Health and Safety Executive.
9(7) Vital capacity apparatus
A simple spirometer’/vital capacity apparatus (Constructional details are given later in this bulletin.
9(7) Calorimetry of common fuels
Advice on methods for measuring heats of combustion (‘calorific’ value) of common fuels
15(13) Science interfacing register (SIR)
This register, advertised in Bulletin 129, is now a reality, issue number 1 having been sent out to registrants in January.
16(14) Micro-electronic technology (MET) panel
The Centre has taken another initiative in an attempt to provide a national advisory service on MET hardware for school science.
17(15) Constructional details for vital capacity apparatus
How to construct he simple spirometer/vital capacity apparatus mentioned earlier
19(17) Trade News
21(19) Index Bulletins 120-129
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Bulletin distribution, Bulletin format, ‘Hazcards’, Atomic absorption spectroscopy, Saturday mornings, a reminder, Bumper issue
4(2) Interfacing
The use of micro-electronic circuitry in science teaching – where next?
5(3) CLEAPSE Reports
Available to borrow.
5(3) Accident reports
The use of the ‘Arculus’ method for generating oxygen, plastic ‘dropping bottle’ of the type designed to deliver a few drops of reagent upon inversion and gentle squeezing.
5(3) Thoron ‘cows’
Some concern has been expressed of late over the use of so-called ‘thoron cows’ in schools.
6(4) Oscilloscope earth fault
A potentially hazardous fault in the casings of some Telequipment Serviscope Minor CRO’s.
6(4) ‘EiS’ accident reports
Involving: Thermit reaction, oxidation of ethanal (acetaldehyde) by a potassium manganate (Vll)/sulphuric acid mixture, a hydrogen/oxygen explosion, catalytic oxidation of sulphur dioxide
7(5) ‘Turbid cubes’
With ‘turbid cubes’, ray paths can be made visible at various points in the microscope. In this way the uses of the condenser controls can be directly illustrated.
8(6) Methods for producing flame coloration
Three simple methods, not involving any major modification of the burner, are given.
9(7) Atomic absorption spectroscopy model
How to construct a working model of an atomic absorption spectrophotometer.
12(10) Infra red detector
How to construct an infra-red radiation detector which would be cheap enough to be made in pupil quantity for class use.
13(11) Surplus equipment offer
15(13) In the Workshop
Constructional details for the atomic absorption spectroscopy model.
17(15) Trade News
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Uncollected surplus equipment, Cost index, Summer holiday closing
4(2) Oxidation of ammonia
The oxidation of ammonia as carried out in the model of the Ostwald process has been causing some problems. We had another look at it and present a modified version of a small scale method.
7(5) Surplus Physics equipment
10(8) Chloroplast model
How to construct a model chloroplast.
12(10) Safety signs regulations 1980.
How these new regulations will impact schools.
12(10) Notification of accidents Regulations 1980
How these new regulations will impact schools.
13(11) Accident with diethyl ether
A fire in a refrigerator
13(11) bis-CME warning
A danger relating to a recent article in EiC.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Cassette recorder conversion, Bulletin distribution
4(2) Hydrogen generator
A design for a home made hydrogen generator
6(4) Random access memory
How it works
10(8) Trade News
12(10) In the Workshop
How to make an electrolytic generator such as the hydrogen generator mentioned earlier.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
(A microbiology special)
3(1) Introduction
Microbiology and home economics, Logo competition
3(1) Microbiology in schools
Rationale, methods, levels, sterilisation and suitable organisms.
17(15) Trade News
18(16) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Dr Meek’s infra-red spectrograms, Technicians’ guide – microscope care and maintenance, Microbiology in Bulletin 126, Bulletin bulk distribution, Separate the science in the bulletin? Cost index
5(3) Surplus physics equipment
7(5) Hazards of 1,2-dibromoethane
Due to evidence of its carcinogenicity, we have withdrawn it from our chemicals list.
7(5) Modified meta blocks
Modification of method in Bulletin 115 for reduction of metal oxides with meta blocks.
8(6) Infra-red spectrograms
List of spectra available
9(7) Display Laboratory
New additions
9(7) Trade News
12(10) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Logo competition Page, More questionnaire replies, please! Physics equipment list, Making cassette recorders compatible with language labs, Repair of pupil oscilloscopes, Holiday closing dates
7(5) Disposable spraying booth
using a cut-away cardboard box as a small disposable shield or booth for spraying chromatograms.
8(6) Anti-splash guard for test tubes
A simple means of preventing ejected liquid from travelling from a test tube across the bench
9(7) Revised list of micro-organisms
A revised list of available organisms.
9(7) ‘H’ grade microscopes
A list of suitable models available
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
(A Restricted Chemicals special)
3(1) Introduction
3(1) Banned and Restricted chemicals
A lengthy list.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Planning Committee, SSSERC questionnaire
5(3) Opinion
Hidebound equipment?
6(4) Once-a-week timer
A once-a-week timer to allow for the regular activation of laser tubes.
8(6) Surplus equipment
10(8) Combustion of charcoal blocks
Charcoal blocks can continue to smoulder long after the reduction of the copper or lead oxide is over and the laboratory closed up for the day.
10(8) Two laboratory accidents
Oxidisers in a bin, sparking in a flask washed with propanone.
11(9) Trade News
13(11) Display Laboratory
Latest additions.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Devon Reid, H.M.I, SYS chemistry equipment list, ‘O’ grade microscopes, Cost index, Summer holiday closing
4(2) Chemistry experiments, advice on safety
The third of our articles from the ASE Safety Committee, Materials and Processes Group, Advice on Safety in Chemical Experiments.
8(6) Rotation of the centre of mass of a body
An idea for demonstrating that the centre of mass of a body undergoing projectile motion is not affected by any rotational motion which the body may have.
9(7) Scaler/frequency meter
A correction to the article in Bulletin 115
9(7) Trade News
10(8) ‘O’ grade microscopes
A comparative survey of microscopes for work up to ‘O’ grade.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Planning Committee reorganisation, SSSERC subscriptions
4(2) Bioluminescence
Some classroom activities on this fascinating topic.
7(5) Demonstration digital display
For some time we have sought a digital display which could be driven from t.t.l and which would be large enough to be seen from the rear of a classrooms
8(6) In the Workshop
How to make the demonstration digital display as described above.
10(8) Modified deflagrating spoons
A small modification of these enables them to fit into a boiling tube
11(9) Trade News
12(10) Address List
13(11) Index, Nos. 110 – 119
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Technicians’ workshops, Easter closing dates
4(2) The hazards of biological stains
Their dangers and safe usage.
6(4) Temperature compensation in pH meters
How to compensate for temperature effects in uncompensated meters.
8(6) 100 vol hydrogen peroxide
Potential hazards of keeping 100 vol solutions as a stock.
9(7) Quiz game control unit
Making a ‘first to the buzzer’ circuit.
12(10) Display Laboratory
Latest additions
13(11) Trade News
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
The problem of electrical safety testing, WP.A. apparatus design competition results
4(2) A sparking generator using a car ignition coil
In Bulletin 49 we gave a simple circuit using a relay, for producing a sparking generator for those experiments in chemistry which need one, e.g. the combination of nitrogen and oxygen in air. We decided to update the circuit by using electronic ignition.
6(4) Circular motion experiments
Using the Harris data memory
11(9) Help wanted
Assistance sought with the testing of o.h.p. lamp bulbs
11(9) Trade News
13(11) Low voltage power units
A summary of tests carried out on low voltage power supplies. Individual reports on these may be borrowed by writing to the Director.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Carcinogenic hazards, Cost index, Holiday closing dates.
3(1) Carcinogenic hazards in school science
The second of our articles from the ASE Safety Committee Materia1s and Processes Group, Possible carcinogenic hazards in Schoo1 science.
9(7) CLEAPSE Reports
A new batch of reports available.
10(8) Oxygen electrodes
How to care for WPA oxygen electrodes.
11(9) Trade News
12(10) In the Workshop
Safety modification to a microscope illuminator
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Surplus equipment and where to find it.
6(4) Leaf litter
Solutions to the organisational problems, if a number of classes carry out these practicals at about the same time.
8(6) Electronic balances
An investigation into their accuracy and suitability.
10(8) Addendum to article on the regeneration of mixed-bed resins in Bulletin 110
It seems some resins are not suitable for this method
11(9) Surplus physics equipment
13(11) A fire caused by an OHP
Due to focussing of the sun’s rays.
13(11) Centrifuges with open heads
Centrifuges with open rotating heads should be boxed in so that moving parts cannot be touched.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Overreacting to safety advice, Poor man’s frequency meter
3(1) Reducing metal oxides
A safe means of effecting rapid reduction both of lead and copper oxides with the aid of ‘meta’ blocks which consist of ethanal tetramer (metaldehyde)
6(4) Blood
Recommended blood sampling procedure
9(7) VCO (voltage controlled oscillator)
The voltage controlled oscillator as a SYS project
10(8) Scaler/frequency meter conversion
We were consulted by a school on how one might adapt the input to a scaler so that it operated as a frequency meter, and found it was a comparatively simple and cheap process
12(10) Display laboratory
The latest additions.
13(11) Centrifuge summary
A summary of tests on a number of centrifuges.
14(12)Address list
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Cost index, Overseas subscriptions
3(1) Immersion heater ‘explosion’
An explosion occurred when a 12V immersion heater supplied by Griffin was being used to melt ice.
3(1) Textbook correction
Longmans have given notice of an error in their text “A Modern Course of Organic Chemistry”
4(2) BR. And livestock
A list of Scottish stations that will handle livestock.
5(3) Addendum to microscope illumination
We failed to caution about direct sunlight.
5(3) Combustion calorimeters
Making and using simple DIY calorimeters
8(6) Trade News
10(8) In the Workshop
How to make the various combustion calorimeters described earlier.
12(10) Moving coil: three-in-one model
Constructing a moving-coil instrument to model an ammeter, loudspeaker and microphone.
14(12) Address List
3(1) Introduction
Illness of Director, Surplus equipment ballot, Saturday morning closure, Corrections to ISO equipment list
3(1) Opinion
SSSERC services and the ‘customer’
4(2) Food and fuel calorimeters
Over the years there have been several reports of explosions occurring in food and fuel combustion calorimeters.
6(4) Microscope illumination
Theory and practice of illuminating microscope specimens.
11(9) Agricultural Science Equipment list now available
11(9) Surplus physics equipment
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
SSSERC involvement in national safety committees,
3(1) Opinion
Micro-electronics in schools
5(3) Poisons
Storing poisons in schools
8(6) Sterilisation in microbiology
Using pressure cookers for sterilisation
12(10) Trade News 10.
13(11) Gating unit for scaler/timers
How to use of scaler/timers as light gates.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Integrated Science equipment list. Availability of surplus equipment, A.S.E. annual meeting, Easter closing dates
5(3) Flammables Survey
Finding out the amount of flammables kept in schools
7(5) Pulse beat indicator
A new version of the apparatus. The milk straw has been replaced by an optical pointer, using a 10 x 5mm piece of plane mirrors
7(5) Scaler module for SSSERC timer/frequency meter
In Bulletin 101 we described some novel uses of the timer/frequency meter of Bulletins 86 and 87. Now we show how the unit can become a scaler, driven from a Geiger tube.
9(7) A non-commutating d.c. motor
A design for a commutator – less d.c. motor, taken from a booklet, ‘Simple Physics Apparatus’ by R. F. Simpson
10(8) In The Workshop
A model to show the stability of a double-decker bus.
12(10) Trade News
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Hazardous chemicals manual published,
3(1) Performance testing of autoclaves
How to ensure your autoclave is still sterilising.
4(2) Oxygen meters
DIY circuits for making your own.
7(5) Ion exchange resin
Regenerating a mixed bed ion exchange resin
10(8) Surplus physics equipment
11(9) The short, short life of OHP lamp bulbs
Problems with bulb lifespans.
12(10) Address List
13(11) Bulletin Index, Nos 100 – 109
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Cost index, Holiday closing dates.
3(1) Gating unit for scaler/timers
We offer two versions.
6(4) Human body resistance values
Following on from Bulletin 107
6(4) Timers
Two designs of general purpose timer.
10(8) Display Laboratory
The latest additions
11(9) Forearm model
How to make a working models of the human forearm.
12(10) Test-tube racks
Very simple and stable test-tube racks can be made easily from Marley drain pipes.
13(11) Trade News
14(12) Address List
3(1) Introduction
Revised integrated science course equipment list, Xmas/New Year closing dates,
3(1) Health and Safety Executive – pilot study of educational establishments.
Extracts from the report.
6(4) A pulse rate meter
At recent exhibitions we have held considerable interest has been shown in a pulse rate meter we have built.
7(5) Learning to use a microscope
Using a 35mm negative as subjects.
10(8) The hazards of heating liquids
How to do this safely.
12(10) Trade News
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – summary of microscope test reports
14(12) Address list
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
‘Fog indices’ and clear communication.
4(2) Natural gas burners
Reflections on ripples set off by the fire (Involving the Rhodes Flamefast model 702 burner) which was reported in Bulletin 97.
4(2) Energy conversion experiment
A correction needed to Integrated science worksheets
5(3) Human body resistance values
We investigate a seemingly dubious claim.
5(3) Surplus physics equipment
7(5) Scaler/timers conversion to a fully digital read-out conversion – again
Now we show how to convert the Panax scaler to digital display
11(9) Trade News
13(11) Bulletin Supplement
Stereo-microscope test report summaries
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Future SSERC exhibitions/lectures,.
3(1) Opinion
Why accelerate?
5(3) Measuring oxygen production in photosynthesis
Using pondweed and dissolved oxygen meters.
8(6) Hazardous chemicals manual
Problems with some printing.
12(10) Freezing by evaporation – revisited.
We have been sent an alternative method.
12(10) In the Workshop
A trickle charger for alkaline cells
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Cost index, Surplus equipment ballot, Overseas subscriptions
3(1) Surplus physics equipment
6(4) Redox prediction analogue
Use of redox potentials and prediction of direction of spontaneous reactions causes difficulty for some pupils. This analogue balance can offer some help in this situation.
9(7) Thorax bell-jar model
A recurring problem with this model is the perishing of the rubber sheet used to represent the diaphragm. We offer an alternative – material from an old inner tube.
12(10) In the Workshop
Making the redox prediction analogue referred to earlier.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Saturday morning opening. ASE meeting on Safety in School Science, Biology symposium to launch the Scottish Association for Biological Education
3(1) Opinion
School technicians
4(2) Verification of Graham’s Law
A slight modification of the apparatus designed to measure the permeation rate of gases through a rubber membrane described in Bulletin 103 page 3,
5(3) Scaler/timer conversion
A conversion method to compensate for faulty decatron tubes that cannot me economically replaced.
10(8) Environmental thermometers
A review of devices available for environmental monitoring.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Paying for surplus equipment, Hazardous chemicals manual: distribution.
4(2) On blowing up balloons
Relative rates of deflation of balloons filled with air, hydrogen and carbon dioxide should be in accord with what kinetic theory and Graham’s law would predict. However, this is not so.
8(6) Decimal to binary converter
Asuggestion for a decimal to binary code conversion unit.
10(8) Investigating the simultaneity of two sounds
Do we have any persistence of hearing, like persistence of vision?
11(9) Trade News
12(10) Stations experiments markers
Using marker labels cut from empty plastic bottles.
13(11) Oxygen electrode stirrer
The rate of stirring of the solution affects the rate of oxygen transfer, which could therefore affect the meter reading. We offer a solution.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Safety lectures, The future of SSSERC, ASE Scottish Region Annual Meeting
4(2) Opinion
SSSERC’s law?
5(3) oxygen meters
Oxygen electrodes, used routinely in industry and research for some time, have recently been made sufficiently robust and inexpensive for school use,
9(7) The Exploding match experiment
A safer alternative method for this entertaining activity.
10(8) Freezing by evaporation: an OHP demonstration
Evaporation of the water is done by evacuating the space surrounding it using a rotary pump. The amount which can be frozen is very small, of the order of a few drops, so that the overhead projector is used to show the process happening.
12(10) Trade News
ASE Annual Meeting Exhibition report
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Display laboratory, Bulletin contents , Cost index, Saturday morning closures
4(2) Opinion
Duty versus responsibility
5(3) Equipment Offer
Sale of biology, chemistry and physics apparatus
6(4) Hazardous chemicals manual
A sample page of the forthcoming manual.
8(6) Mechanical switch timing with the SSSERC timer/frequency meter
Our timer/frequency meter can be readily adapted for other timing and counting requirements, so that it becomes possible for example to dispense with a scaler/timer, at a considerable saving of money.
11(9) Trade News
13(11) Display Laboratory
Recent additions.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Bibliography of safety manuals, Our centenary issue, Saturday closing dates
4(2) The Elodea experiment
The search for a pupil scale experiment which would show convincingly that an illuminated plant gives out oxygen.
5(3) Water sample collecting jar
A simple design.
9(7\) Surplus physics equipment
9(7) EM radiation hazard
Potential hazards of such sources for heart pacemaker wearers
10(8) Sound generation
A self-maintained tuning fork
12(10) Address List
13(11) Bulletin Index Nos. 90 – 99
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Microbiology lecture, Saturday morning closures – due to Director secondment to Lahore.
3(1) Opinion
‘plus ca change …‘
4(2) A ticker timer drive
How to make a suitable ticker timer driver.
6(4) Air table molecular motion model
Equipment that can be used to demonstrate many phenomena which depend on random motion and collisions of particles.
8(6) In The Workshop – ticker timer drive
How to make a functioning ticker timer drive.
9(7) In The Workshop – air table model
How to make the model described earlier.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – stereomicroscope summary
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
(A microbiology special)
3(1) Introduction
Our advisory service on microbiology
3(1) Detailed advice on safety techniques in teaching microbiology
Techniques, procedures and suitable organisms.
13(11) Trade News
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Cutting apparatus costs, Saturday opening, Cost index
3(1) Temperatures on the Flamefast burner
As a result of a fire in a laboratory we were asked to investigate the Rhodes Flamefast natural gas burner type C701.
5(3) Low melting-point solids
Conductivity of molten covalent compounds
5(3) Surplus physics equipment
9(7) Hazards of dressed seeds
Seeds supplied to schools for germination and morphological investigations are increasingly dressed with fungicide/insecticide.
9(7) Trade News
10(8) In The Workshop – diagram animator
A device that can be used to show by means of moving spots of light the direction of flow of a fluid in a diagrammatic sketch, either for unidirectional or circular flow,
14(12) Addresses
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Safety focus in this Bulletin.
4(2) Mercury
The mercury hazard – a recent incident and some scare stories – what is the truth?
8(6) Dissolved oxygen measurement
In Bulletin 78 we described apparatus which could be used for the estimation of dissolved oxygen content of water samples. We have received details of a simpler method, which dispenses with the need for a syringe valve.
11(9) A waveform generator circuit
The R.S, Components waveform generator 305-844 can readily be made a very low frequency sine wave generator to show phase lead and lag in reactive circuits.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – stereomicroscopes.
A summary of stereomicroscope tests.
14(12) Addresses
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Future SSERC exhibitions and demonstrations, Help for S.Y.S. chemistry projects, Geology fieldwork, Technician post
4(2) Maintenance of microscopes
Advice on the storage, cleaning and general maintenance of microscopes.
7(5) Constant current discharge of a capacitor
Investigations into capacitors.
11(9) Random sequence note generator design
Correction to the previous Bulletin.
11(9) Mobilites of hydrogen and hydroxyl ions
Problems with a method for demonstrating ion mobilities.
12(10) Trade News
14(12) Address List
3(1) Introduction
CSYS chemistry projects, CSYS biology equipment list
3(1) Opinion
Safety spectacles again.
4(2) Improving microscope contrast
We been looking again at a number of simple techniques involving special methods of illumination.
7(5) Safety spectacles maintenance
The cleaning and disinfection of safety spectacles.
9(7) Substances for cooling curves
We investigated possible alternatives to naphthalene as a substance to be used in a melting point determination.
10(8) A random sequence note generator
Creating a sequence of random musical notes.
12(10) Trade News
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
CSYS experimental guide to mechanics, Subscription reminder, Cost index, Christmas and New Year closing dates
3(1) Opinion
The use of goggles in chemistry
5(3) Hydrogen electrode
The cost and difficulty in use often discourages teachers from using a hydrogen electrode. We show a cheaper easier way to do it.
7(5) Mendel’s second law
Following on from Bulletin 91, dealing with the independent assortment of characters in a dihybrid cross, is a little more difficult to simulate but we have a solution.
9(7) In The Workshop – Mendel’s second law
A flashing light model used in the activity described above.
13(11) Trade News
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Chemistry project competition, FE, help with C.S.Y.S. projects, Surplus equitment
3(1) Opinion
Flameproof cabinets
4(2) Fire test on a flameproof cabinet
Results of testing our wooden flameproof cabinet.
7(5) Bis-CME hazard
Warning of danger from Griffin and George in one of their own booklets.
7(5) S concert pitch generator
How to divide down a 1 MHz crystal controlled frequency, to generate the concert pitch A 440 Hz with an accuracy better than 0.05%.
11(9) Surplus physics equipment
12(10) Trade News
13(11) Bulletin Supplement — stereornicroscopes
Test reports available on stereomicroscopes
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Distribution of surplus equipment, Free chemicals, FE. help with CSYS projects
4(2) Nickel cadmium cells
Notes on the care of nickel cadmium cells.
5(3) Surplus physics equipment
10(8) Asbestos hazard – again
Since we published a note in Bulletin 88 on hazards due to asbestos in the science laboratory there has been considerable activity both within and without educational circles. Further advice.
12(10) In the Workshop – Microscope illuminator
How to make a simple, DIY microscope illuminator.
13(11) Monohybrid cross model
A simple model to help pupils understand a simple monohybrid genetic cross
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Chemistry equipment list, Session 1976/77 programme, Footnote
4(2) Opinion
Telephone troubles
5(3) Microbiology again
It was interesting to note that the disquiet felt by a non-biologist (Opinion, Bulletin 89) about practical microbiology in schools, is shared by a professional microbiologist working in the Public Health Laboratory at Dulwich Hospital.
7(5) Vacuum filtration
Using a syringe pump instead of a standard water-powered device.
7(5) Sodium absorption effect
How to demonstrate an absorption spectrum.
8(6) Photo-transistor alternative
A cheaper alternative to the commonly used device.
9(7) Average and rms values of alternating current
An OHP demonstration of average and RMS va1ues of alternating current.
9(7) Variable focus lens
Make a varifocal lens from a transparent plastic bottle whose sides can be squeezed to increase or reduce their curvature.
10(8) Trade News
12(10) Address List
13(11) Bulletin Index Nos 80 – 89
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Biology equipment list, Surplus chemicals, Cost index
4(2) Opinion
Microbiology hazards
6(4) Aquarium heaters
It is now illegal to sell the glass envelope type of aquarium heater.
6(4) Drosophila feeding
Disposable feeding bottles are ideal for Drosophila culture.
6(4) Measurement of sodium D line wavelength
A very simple method of determining the wavelength,
7(5) Steam engine hazard
In October last year, the BBC Nationwide programme featured a series of accidents involving the Mamod model steam engine,
8(6) Surplus physics equipment
11(9) Trade News
13(11) In the Workshop — measured volume dispenser
This dispenser not only allows liquids to be dispensed into test tubes, flasks or beakers without spillage, but will deliver the selected volume accurate to within 0.1 ml.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Bulletin distribution arrangements, Surplus equipment distribution, Assistant director of chemistry appointed (Allen Cochrane).
4(2) Electronic calculators
We have embarked for a second time on the task of assessing electronic calculators
6(4) Surplus chemicals
Griffin and George have given to us for disposal a large number of chemicals.
7(5) Asbestos hazard
Following on a television programme we have had a number of queries from teachers, obviously prompted by parent and pupil concern, on the risks associated with handling asbestos. We state the position as informatively as we can.
8(6) Equipotential lines experiment
Regarding the experiment to show equipotential surfaces – a suggestion is to use alternating rather than direct current is examined.
9(7) EMF by potentiometer
Can it be effectively and accurately measured?
10(8) In the Workshop – centrifugal pump
A centrifugal liquid pump in which the rotor is a permanent magnet, driven by a standard magnet stirrer is described.
11(9) Microprojection with an OHP
We describe a wooden stand carrying a back-projection viewing screen which allows the teacher to micro-project a slide to a group of 4-5 pupils so that significant features may be pointed out.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Scottish branch A.S.E. annual meeting, FE. help with CSYS projects, Easter closing dates
3(1) Opinion
Capital equipment costs 1.
4(2) Timer and frequency meter, part 2
This continues the article on the timer and frequency meter, the first part of which appeared in Bulletin 86.
9(7) Gram formula mass determination
The gram formula mass of an unknown volatile substance is found by comparing the masses of equal volumes of the unknown and a known substance when both are vaporised and at the same temperature and pressure.
10(8) Trade News
11(9) In the Workshop – Syringe oven
A syringe oven for use in gram formula mass determination as described above.
13(11) ‘O’ grade microscopes
Bulletin Supplement of test reports available.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Mr. Hugh Medine retires
3(1) Opinion
Acronym competition, no biology in the bulletin?
4(2) Vibrating spatula
An even simpler yet effective design.
4(2) Integrating photometer experiment
Light falling on the cell causes deposition of copper on the cathode, which can be weighed periodically.
5(3) Microprojection using the o.h.p.
How to project a microscope image using an Overhead Projector.
6(4) Puzzle box
A simple design for an intriguing object.
7(5) A timer and frequency meter, part 1
It is not a difficult matter to construct a millisecond timer which will register transit times of moving vehicles.
11(9) Trade News
11(9) In The Workshop – circuit board
Much of the work in current electricity in Section 7 of the Integrated Science course can be carried out with this circuit board.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Surplus equipment, Cost index, Christmas and New Year closing dates
3(1) Poor man’s phase contrast
Using polarised light as a cheaper alternative.
5(3) Methanal hazard
A warning not to allow methanol to contact hydrochloric acid.
6(4) Laboratory accidents
Bottle of calcium carbide shattered, Use of a vacuum cleaner as a compressed air source to drive a bench blowpipe.
6(4) FE help with CSYS projects
Some colleges have offered to assist.
7(5) Surplus physics equipment
10(8) Printed circuits
Etching your own circuits.
11(9) Trade News.
12(10) In The Workshop – solids dispenser
A convenient dispenser for solids, based on the sugar dispenser used by cafes
12(10) Diode and transistor models
Simple models to demonstrate the workings of these components.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
CSYS experimental guide to electrostatics, SSSERC annual subscription, Christmas and New Year closing dates
3(1) Opinion
More S.I. and abbreviations
4(2) Demonstrating the mechanics of sailing
A method of demonstrating the action of sailing on a broad reach, or sailing into the wind,
5(3) Correction to physics equipment list
5(3) Correction to pelican crossing circuit in Bulletin 72
5(3) Phase relations in a capacitor
Following on from Bulletin 68. We show how a simple pendulum with its tip moving in a conducting solution can be used to demonstrate phase relationships.
7(5) Potometer for use on the OHP
We demonstrate a simple design.
9(7) Trade News
10(8) In The Workshop – Vibrating spatula
A simple method for making this useful device
10(8) In The Workshop – Aquarium pump
We have produced another adaptation which will allow an aquarium to be aerated from a low voltage supply such as a car battery.
12(10) In The Workshop – burglar-proofing a room
A rather eccentric electric circuit project.
14 (12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Surplus equipment
4(2) Opinion
Abbreviations and acronyms.
Biology Abstracts
A list of past biology articles and the Bulletin(s) where they are located
5(3) Transport systems
5(3) Respiration
6(4) Photosynthesis
6(4) Nutrition
7(5) Growth
7(5) Reproduction
7(5) Movement
7(5) Sensitivity
7(5) Ecology
8(6) Microscopy
9(7) Husbandry
10(8) Surplus physics equipment
12(10) Fire-resistant paint offer
13(11) Trade News
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Establishing a cost index
3(1) Opinion
The Health and Safety at Work Act
Chemistry Abstracts
A list of past chemistry articles and the Bulletin(s) where they are located
5(3) General 3
5(3) Thermo-chemistry and thermodynamics
6(4) Chemical dynamics
6(4) Electro—chemistry
7(5) Colloid chemistry
7(5) Molecular weight
7(5) Chemical compounds
8(6) Chemical structure in relation to properties
8(6) Experimental and preparative chemistry
9(7) Measurement and instrumentation
9(7) Physical methods of analysis
9(7) Chromatography
10(8) Organic chemistry
10(8) Gaseous fuels
11(9) Workshop practice
11(9) Safety
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – low voltage power units
Reviews available for various low power units.
14(12) Address list
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Overseas subscriptions, Bulletin abstracts
Physics Abstracts
A list of past physics articles and the Bulletin(s) where they are located
4(2) Mathematical logic
4(2) Measurement
4(2) Mecianics
4(2) Dynamics
5(3) Energy conversions
6(4) Fluid mechanics
6(4) Waves
6(4) Gas laws
6(4) Sound
7(5) Optics
7(5) Heat
8(6) Electrostatics
8(6) Current electricity
10(8) Electromagnetism
10(8) AC theory
11(9) Electronics 9.
11(9) Atomic physics 9.
12(10) Meteorology
12(10) Workshop practice
12(10) Trade News
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Basic and workshop equipment list
3(1) Disinfectants
A review of the apparopriate (and inappropriate) usage of detergents in the microbiological laboaratory.
8(6) In The Workshop – Flask shaker
A simple design for a DIY flask shaker.
12(10) Address List
13(11) Bulletin Index, Nos. 70 – 79
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Hazardous chemicals manual – developments
3(1) Millon’s reagent
The case against its continued use.
7(5) Laboratory accidents
Lithium explosion on heating, Pupil squirting liquid from a syringe, heating of a liquid in a closed flask fitted with a Bunsen valve, Butyric acid accident due to ‘horseplay’.
8(6) Molecular weight determination
Using a lighter fuel container to determine the molecular weight of a gas.
9(7) Sodium street lamps
Warning about their disposal
10(8) Integrated circuit multivibrator
Using an inverter to mimic a triode valve or transistor in a multi-vibrator circuit,
11(9) Trade News
12(10) In The Workshop – ticker tape dispenser
A simply a wall-mounted flat box carrying a roll of ticker tape, with a hinged top to allow the reel to be dropped in,
14(12)Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Spiralling costs
3(1) Opinion
Symbols and abbreviations
5(3) Dissolved oxygen measurement
We have developed a piece of apparatus which may be more efficient in minimising errors from these sources than the apparatus usually recommended.
8(6) Collapsed can experiment
Using a ring-pull can.
9(7) flameproof cabinet test
Following on from Bulletin 75: results of tests on metal cabinets.
12(10) pH electrode simulator
A method of testing the workings of your pH probe.
13(11) equilibrium constant of lead sulphate/sodium iodide
Problems with purity of the reagents.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Scottish Branch A.S.E. annual meeting
3(1) Opinion
Chemical and psychological hazards
4(2) Melting point apparatus
An amendment to the article in Bulletin 76
5(3) Surplus physics equipment
8(6) Thermoelectric effect
A correction to the article in Bulletin 76
8(6) Bridge rectification model
A design for apparatus to show the current path at different parts of the cycle in bridge rectification
10(8) Peak and rms values
A query about a CSYS experiment.
10(8) In The Workshop – A battery soldering iron 8.
12(10) In The Workshop – Intercostal rib cage model
13(11) In The Workshop – Abrading glass tubing
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Accident & emergency procedures, SYS physics experimental guide, Exhibition programme
4(2) Opinion
Manufacturers’ catalogues
5(3) Melting point apparatus
A satisfactory melting point apparatus can be made from a scrap 500 g or 200 g brass weight, or from a block of aluminium
6(4) Automatic precipitate washing 4.
We show a method of providing automatic washing of a precipitate in a filter funnel
6(4) Paper chromatography
A variation on the common method.
7(5) Velocity of sound in a rod
An experiment that may be of interest to anyone investigating the velocity of sound in a rod, by any of the techniques described in Bulletin 49, or elsewhere.
7(5) Microbiology hazards
We would. like to draw the attention of teachers to an article “How safe are microbiology texts?” by Wyatt and Wright in the “Journal of Biological Education”
8(6) Trade News
10(8) In the Workshop – thermoelectric effect apparatus
A method of demonstrating the thermo-electric effect, borrowed via Didacta from East Germany.
11(9) ‘Umbrella inversion’ molecular model
A model to to illustrate the ‘inversion’ which takes place in the methane molecule when a hydrogen is replaced by a halogen atom,
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Contributions to SSSERC bulletins, Holiday closing dates.
4(2) Opinion
Flameproof cabinets
6(4) Stethograph and tambour
A modification of the traditional stethograph and. tambour in which the mechanical lever and pen method of producing a record has been replaced by an electrical arrangement.
10(8) Demonstration pH meter
We have made a small modification to the Philip Harris pH meter B51 60/1 , to allow it to be used for demonstration work with a large-scale milliamrneter, or with a chart recorder.
12(10) Thermometer life-savers
A simple device to prevent thermometers rolling off the bench and breaking by making small plastic tabs which fit over the thermometer. The tabs are cut from plastic detergent bottles.
12(10) Formers for low resistors
Simple method for making low value resistors.
13(11) Lever apparatus
More stable apparatus for investigating the simple lever law.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Integrated Science Equipment List – being duplicated, out soon.
4(2) Surplus equipment available
8(6) Griffin basic microbiology kit
A response from Griffin to some comments about disposal.
9(7) Gas lighters
A review of various types and models.
11(9) Constant volume dispenser
Improvements suggested to our design in Bulletin 73.
12(10) Trade News
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – gas lighters
Details of the tests referenced in the earlier article.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Future bulletins and envelope shortages, Colin Weatherley leaves, Scottish Science Advisers Group, Annual subscription
5(3) Opinion
Didacta
6(4) Photomicrography
We have developed a method in which the microscope is used to produce an enlargement directly by projection
9(7) Dilution for waste disposal
We describe apparatus that shows a safe method of diluting solutions which are to be disposed of as waste and which require to be diluted before emptying into the drains,
9(7) Silver recovery
We describe a method for recycling silver waste.
10(8) Trade News
11(9) In The Workshop – constant volume dispenser
We describe simple apparatus that will put equal or nearly equal quantities of some liquid reagent into several receptacles.
12(10) ‘Smoking doll’ for lung contamination
In Bulletin 38 we described an apparatus used to demonstrate lung contamination by smoking. The ‘smoking doll’ is probably no more effective but possibly more fun.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
CSYS physics experimental guide produced, adding machines.
3(1) Pelican crossing sequence
There recently appeared in a School Science Review details of how to construct a circuit to execute the pelican crossing sequence of traffic lights. We offer a cheaper method.
10(8) Surplus equipment available
12(10) Combustion of ammonia
Generally text–books state that ammonia will not burn in air, but it can in fact be made to burn.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – ‘O’ grade microscopes
A list of test reports available.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
SSSERC domestic arrangements Page 1
3(1) Component tester
The component tester to be described allows one to make a quick check on the value of any impedance, linear or non-linear.
4(2) Air track velocities, correction
Chart in Bulletin 70 upside down.
4(2) Electrostatic field demonstration
An alternative method for generating an electrostatic field.
5(3) Blow pipes for natural gas
We have had discussions with Scottish Gas on blowpipes suitable for natural gas.
7(5) Heats of neutralisation
The Central Commitee on Chemistry asked us to carry out an investigation on this using school type apparatus.
8(6) Clinistix test strips
‘Clinistix’ have proved extremely useful in school biology courses there may be some teachers who do not like using them because of the possibility of carcinogenic effects, We will describe the history and background to this problem.
9(7) Ash content determinations
Ash content determinations of plant material are often time—consuming and tedious. We describe an alternative method – the oxygen-flask method
12(10) Trade News
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Disposal of hazardous chemicals
4(2) Pen recorder as a timing device
The use of a high speed pen recorder as a timing device may seem uncalled—for sophistication, but this is only one of several uses of a modestly priced instrument.
6(4) Decomposition of ammonia
Sparking ammonia gas over liquid paraffin is suggested as a demonstration experiment in Section M2 of the chemistry syllabus.
7(5) A fatal experiment
Report from Australia of a solid rocket propellant, using potassium and sulphur chlorate (sic)
7(5) Thermochromic liquid recipe
Thermochromic liquid for illustrating convection current is simple to make in the laboratory.
7(5) Trade News
9(7) Electronic Calculators
A detailed review of various models.
12(10) Address List
13(11) Bulletin Index Nos. 60—69
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Electronic calculators
3(1) Opinion
Mains muddle
4(2) Surplus physics equipment
6(4) Gas chromatograph
Details of a DIY device
9(7) Electronic Calculators
A review of 4 models
12(10) In The Workshop – gas chromatograph
How to make a working DIY gas chromatograph.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Future exhibitions
3(1) Opinion
Follow the leader
5(3) VLF generator
Apparatus for measuring the beat frequency of two pendulums of unequal length can be modified to make a VLF generator.
6(4) ‘O’ grade microscopes
7(5) Constant current power supply
There would seem to be an increasing requirement for a constant current power supply for use in coulometric titrations,
8(6) Chemical kinetics model
A wind machine which models how the rate of reaction of substances could be affected by such things as temperature, activation energy etc.
9(7) In The Workshop – chemical kinetics model
How to build the model referred to above.
11(9) Bulletin Supplement – ‘O’ grade microscopes
A review of currently available models.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Annual subscription, Bulletin reprints, Surplus equiprnent in the Dundee area
4(2) Oxidation of ammonia
How to carry this out safely.
5(3) Surplus physics equipment
8(6) Faraday cage
Making a Faraday cage to show that there is no electric field inside a hollow conductor
9(7) In The Workshop – microscope eyepiece projector
A microscope eyepiece attachment which allows the image to be projected horizontally onto a screen,
9(7) Microscope viewing head
Following an idea supplied by a teacher of using a slide projector as a light source, we have constructed a cheap viewing head from a flower pot.
13(11) Trade News
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
SSSERC microscope reports, Physics equipment list, Integrated science list
5(3) On choosing a microscope (Part 2)
The second part of the article on choosing a microscope, continuing from Bulletin 65
9(7) Bulletin Supplement – ‘H’ grade microscopes
A list of microscopes suitable for ‘H’ grade work in schools.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Iranian science – an update on the situation with Nuffield Combined Science.
4(2) On choosing a microscope
Advice on choosing suitable microscopes for pupil use.
9(7) Accident report
An accident which occurred during storage of a mixture of copper and sulphur powder.
10(8) In The Workshop – Spark ignition of fuels
Construction of Apparatus which can be used to show explosion of mixtures of air and petrol, town gas, natural gas, liquified petroleum gas (propane or butane) or a combustible powder such as lycopodium.
11(9) Smoke cell
An improved version of our design from Bulletin 4.
10(8) 4 mm plug leads
Connecting them for mechanical strength.
12(10) Connector block
A DIY connector block to simplify wiring.
13(11) Trade News
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Assistant Director of Biology (John Richardson), Assessing electronic calculators
4(2) Surplus physics equipment available.
5(3) Disposal of radioactive sources
The National Radiological Protection Board will accept for disposal any radioactive source.
6(4) Inductive reactance demonstration
An experiment which shows the ‘choking’ or inertial effect of inductance.
7(5) Filter pump use
Water use by filter pumps.
7(5) Food testing with ‘stix’ papers
We look at the effectiveness and suitability of various clinistix and albustix products.
11(9) CLEAPSE Reports
An updated list of CLEAPSE reports available to borrow.
12(10) Explosive gas mixtures
How to carry out gas explosions safely.
12(10) Storage of sulphur dioxide cylinders
Incorrect storage can lead to corrosion.
13(11) Pipette filler
In Bulletin 32 we described the construction of a pipette filler based on a disposable syringe. Since then we have found a simpler method of construction.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Secondment of Colin Weatherley
3(1) Opinion
Caveat emptor – Use of Nuffield Combined Science in Iran
5(3) moments of inertia apparatus
The mathematics is taken out of the problem, and numeracy inserted, by providing a pair of similar objects with different dimensions and asking the student to predict which of the two will have the greater acceleration down. the incline
7(5) Force on a conductor apparatus
A top pan balance with a 10mg sensitivity can be used as a force-on-a-conductor balance,
7(5) Energy content of foods
Some simple methods for food calorimetry.
11(9) Producer gas preparation
A method for making ‘producer gas’ (fuel gas that is manufactured from material such as coal).
12(10) Trade News
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
VAT its introduction and implications for schools.
4(2) Opinion
ASEP (Australian Science Education Programme) systems
5(3) Air flow generator
In chemistry there are instances where it is necessary to push air over a substance in a combustion tube. We show one way of obtaining such an air flow.
5(3) Gas chromatograph
We describe a heating system for the Gallenkamp Junior Gas Chromatograph,
8(6) Laboratory accidents
Using molten potassium chlorate to produce oxygen, Heating magnesium powder instead of ribbon. (Suggested replacement of asbestos with rocksil), Charcoal blocks burning.
8(6) Anaerobic respiration
We describe methods for investigating this process.
10(8) Electro-mechanical flip flop
A flip flop using relays may seem something of an anachromism in these days of dual inline integrated circuit chips. However, there may be pupils, perhaps even some teachers, who feel more confident if they know what is taking place.
11(9) Oersted’s experiment
We take a new look at an old experiment, Oersted’s rotating wire.
12(10) Trade News
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – colorimeters
A summary of test reports on a selection of colorimeters;
14(12) Address list
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Scottish ASE conference, Future SSSERC exhibitions, S.E.D. circular on carcinogens, We will investigate after sales service.
4(2) Opinion
Buying apparatus
5(3) Bicarbonate indicator
Problems with bicarbonate indicator and some solutions.
5(3) Trade New
8(6) In the Workshop – centre of gravity demonstration
A device which seems to catch the wonder of the school pupil morethan other similar centre of gravity “tricks”,
8(6) Perspex sheet bender
In Bulletin 13 we published a design for a perspex sheet bender, using resistance wire heated by a low voltage power supply. We offer some improvements.
11(9) Metronome
A metronome, based on the oscillating advertising sign often seen in shop windows.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Safety in schools, H.M.S.O. safety pamphlets, Regulations governing the disposal of poisonous waste
4(2) Opinion
Apparatus kits
6(4) Testing transistors
The teacher or technician faced with an unmarked transistor may learn a great deal about it by the intelligent use of an ohmmeter.
8(6) Gas analysis
In Bulletin 50 we published a suggested simplification of the technique for gas analysis. Here we offer some improvements.
10(8) Supply of Pharbitis nil
We have a supply of seeds on offer.
10(8) Sulphur trioxide preparation
Catalyst availability and a warning.
10(8) Trade News
11(9) In the Workshop – Respiration module
In bulletin 53 we published details of a module which can be used to detect carbon dioxide production by a wide range of organisms, from soil microbes to humans. We have sent a modified design which offers improvements.
12(10) Address List
13(11) Bulletin Index – Nos. 50 – 59
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Bulletin reprints, Test summaries
4(2) Differential pressure gauge
In Bulletin 57, the surplus equipment carried mention of a differential pressure gauge under the title of air speed indicators At that time we did not know how sensitive the gauge was, nor to what uses it could be put in schools.
6(4) Meter amplifier, correction
Corrections to a couple of errors in the article in Bulletin 55.
6(4) Low voltage power supplies
We propose testing these.
7(5) surplus physics equipment
7(5) Microscopes for ‘0’ grade
We propose testing these.
8(6) Trade News
9(7) Electroplating
Recipes and methods to achieve this successfully.
10(8) Molecular vibration
Correction to a formula in the last Bulletin.
10(8) Vanadium (v) oxide catalyst
We have some available to give away. . . and an account of the oxidation of sulphur dioxide as we have carried out in the Centre.
11(9) Centrifuges
We propose to test some.
12(10) In The Workshop – 14mm plug leads
A method for connecting them that reduces the chances of wires being pulled out.
12(10) Stainless steel identification
A simple method to identify stainless steel.
12(10) Pyrex glass identification
A simple way of distinguishing pyrex from soda glass.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – ‘H’ grade microscopes
A list of test reports available.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
SSSERC Demonstration Lectures
4(2) Transpiration in Plants
We have attempted to simplify the investigations involved, so that they can be performed on a pupil scale wherever possible, and still hopefully provide worthwhile results. In doing so we have made use of a type of bubble atmometer/potometer, the construction and operation of which are described.
9(7) Battery box
A box for using and charging small Nife cells
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Staff updates, Earth Leakage Protection Units
3(1) Supply of Rhabditis
Alternatives that are easier to culture.
3(1) Bile Salts
Whaere to find them – and under what name.
4(2) Aquarium Heaters and Thermostats
The safety of mains-powered heaters in water.
4(2) Electronic Thermometer Probes
Anyone who has made up the Silicon Diode Therniorneter, described In Bulletin 55, may find the production of cheap disposable thermistor probes by Medicon U.K. Ltd. of interest.
5(3) A Mechanical Analogue for Modes of Vibration of Molecules In the Infra Red
A very simple and easily constructed model.
7(5) Uses of Chart Recorders in School Science Teaching
The arrival on the market of chart recorders, costing less than £100, and suitable for school use, has opened up a new era of practical work in school teaching laboratories.
9(7) Chart Recorders for School use
A brief review of the models available.
10(8) Surplus Physics Equipment
10(8) Trade News
11(9) In the Workshop – Hot Air Engine
This device is designed to show the direct conversion of heat into work. The model is very easily constructed from materials which are readily available. It is based on a filter receiver tube and a 10ml glass syringe.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement — Summary of Stereomicroscope tests
A list of stereomicroscope test reports available.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Display Laboratory, Technical Studies Kits, W. B. Nicolson Apparatus and Spares
3(1) Blood Flow Model
Adapted from a Nuffield ‘A’ level Biology design, to enable blind pupils to appreciate the nature of blood flow in arteries and veins.
5(3) Osmotic Pressure with Viskng Tubing
Visking tubing is not the easiest of materials for pupils to handle. We show a more or less permanent arrangement for holding the tubing, which simplifies much of the procedure.
6(4) Stationary Wave Generator
We suggest a set up for conveniently being able to set up a stationary wave pattern in a stretched string, at either fundamental or overtone modes, and to allow these patterns to be clearly visible.
9(7) Surplus physics Equipment
10(8) In the Workshop – Modifications to Dynamics Trolleys
The following suggestions have been received from Berwickshire High School, Dune, as a means of improving the usefulness of dynamics trolleys.
12(10) Useful Rotary Switch
The wave change switch from an old T.V. set makes a useful rotary switch
13(11) Trade News
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Programme of Exhibitions, — Meter Amplifier and the Silicon Diode Thermometer
3(1) Silicon Diode Thermometer
The thermometer which is described in the Physics Notes of this bulletin has several uses in Biology.
4(2) Slides and Transparencies
Price correction to Bulletin 52.
5(3) Cheap Water Purifier
This is based on the replacement cans which are available for the Elgacan Deioniser
5(3) Sixth Form Topics
8 useful chemistry booklets from ICI.
6(4) Simple Meter Amplifier
The construction of a simple but extremely useful D.C. amplifier suitable for detecting or displaying currents of I microamp (or less)
8(6) Silicon Diode Thermometer
This is an electronic thermometer, using a silicon diode as the temperature dependent element in place of a more expensive thermistor.
11(9) Surplus Physics Equipment
12(10) In the Workshop – Live Mammal Trap
An effective and easy to construct design
13(11) Trade News
13(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
AS.E. Meeting at Inverness, Audio Visual Aid materials
3(1) Phenylthiocarbamide (P.T.C.) tasting
Update on the dangers of this substance.
4(2) Albustix and Clinistix
A brief review of their suitability.
4(2) Respiratory Quotient
A simple method, using the compensated respirometer described in Bulletin 48.
5(3) A simple respirometer
Using a plastic syringe of appropriate size to make a simple respirometer.
6(4) Variation of P.D. with capacitance at constant charge
A straightforward method for demonstrating this.
6(4) A simple transistor tester
This unit, costing only a few pence, is designed to allow, in conjunction with an ohmmeter, a quick test on any transistor.
7(5) Polaroid cameras for strobe photography
How to use Polaroid cameras to demonstrate strobe effects.
8(6) Natural Gas Conversion Kit for Griffin and George gas chromatograph
A Natural Gas Conversion Kit is now available from Griffin and George for their Gas Chromatograph
9(7) Trade News
10(8) In the Workshop – S.H.M. Circle of Reference Demonstrator
Apparatus to show that when a particle travels at constant speed in a circle, its projection onto a straight line travels with a variable velocity and acceleration
12(10) Van de Graaf belts
Surgical rubber bandage makes a good replacement
12(10) 4 mm uninsulated sockets
A Substitute for the products we mentioned in Bulletin 51.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – ‘O’ Grade microscopes
A list of review articles available to borrow.
14(12) Address List
A Substitute for the products we mentioned in Bulletin 51.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – ‘O’ Grade microscopes
A list of review articles available to borrow.
14(12) Address List
A list of review articles available to borrow.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Equipment Lists revisions, Sources of rocks, minerals and fossils.
3(1) Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LP.G.) Burners
We test various LPG burners and also a number of other standard Bunsen burners obtained from various suppliers.
4(2) New book, “Hazards in the Chemical Laboratory”
5(3) Respiration module
The detection of carbon dioxide production by a range of living organisms with bicarbonate indicator.
8(6) Surplus physics equipment
13(11) Bulletin Supplement ‘H’ grade microscopes
A list of microscope test reports available.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
ASE Annual Meeting, holiday closures,
4(2) Opinion
Circulation of Bulletin in schools
4(2) Slides and transparencies for the new syllabus
We have drawn up the following lists of recommended. slides and transparencies for the new biology syllabus.
6(4) Injecting Xenopus laevis
Where to find instructions.
7(5) Test Procedure for Colorimeters
Our methodology for testing.
8(6) Gas chromatography
In Bulletin 39 we described an apparatus for gas chromatography. More developments
9(7) Relative weightlessness
A method for demonstrating relative weightlessness.
9(7) Current capacity of small NiFe cells
We investigate the current these cells can produce.
9(7) Sound through a vacuum
Does the classic bell in a jar experiment really mean what we think?
10(8) Pin Hole camera in reverse
An interesting optics item.
10(8) In the Workshop -Test tube racks
Improvements on the design from Bulletin 48.
11(9) In the Workshop -Gas pump for gas chromatography
An aquarium aerator pump of the diaphragm type in moulded plastic case can be converted quite easily for compression of gases as well as air.
11(9) In the Workshop – A microscope eyepiece pointer
Made from thin wire, e.g. 5A fuse wire.
12(10) Trade News
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – Slides and transparencies
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Purchase and use of surplus equipment
4(2) Display Laboratory
New items on show.
5(3) Measurement of velocity of sound in a rod
An extension to the activity described in Bulletin 49.
5(3) Surplus equipment available
9(7) Stereo microscopes
Further comments.
10(8) Storage of pH electrodes
A simple way of avoiding them drying out.
10(8) Natural gas equipment
Satisfactory equipment availability.
11(9) Trade News
12(10) In the Workshop – U2 cell mount
Using a rectangular profile gutter pipe to make a mount for a U2 size cell.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – pH meters
A summary of test reports on a selection of pH meters.
14(12) Addresses
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Secondment of director
3(1) Gas analysis
Most teachers will have found that the J- capillary tube gives better results for gas analysis, and is easier to use, than the gas burette. We published a modification to the capillary tube in Bulletin 45; we have now simplified the whole analysis procedure further.
6(4) Test procedure correction
We mis-labelled a slide in Bulletin 48
6(4) Dissecting pins
Use syringe needles instead.
6(4) Aquaria for Xenopus
Use a polythene stackable tray as a heated water bath with two plastic aquaria containing the animals inside it.
7(5) Laboratory hazards
We ask for information of any incidents.
7(5) In The Workshop – wind direction recorder
Since weather fronts do not occur conveniently during school hours, a wind direction recorder is called for. We have a simple design.
12(10) Address List
13(11) Bulletin Index, Nos. 40 – 49.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Exhibitions
3(1) Velocity of sound in a rod
A method for determining the velocity of sound in a metal rod by investigating impact times.
7(5) pH meter
A summary of the Chandos A47 pH meter.
7(5) Reduction of metallic oxides
We think it worthwhile to give a reduction technique which uses hydrogen but does not have associated with it the dangers that hydrogen from cylinders or even the more conventional gas generators carries.
8(6) Spark generator
An E.H.T. generator based on a car ignition coil.
9(7) In The Workshop – aquarium aerator
A system of aquarium aeration which will operate off l2V.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – pH meters
A summary of tests carried out on a selection of pH meters;
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
New schools
4(2) Mercury vapour hazard
We investigate the risk.
5(3) Specification and test procedure for ‘O’-grade microscopes
The specification and test procedure which follow will replace those originally laid down in Bulletins 7 and 9 for microscopes for ‘O’-grade work.
9(7) Reaction timing
Some biology teachers who wish a more exact or more sophisticated reaction timer than that described in Bulletin 9, may not be aware that the physics department of most schools will possess such an instrument, a scaler/timer.
9(7) Alkaline cell electrolyte
The recipe for the electrolyte used in alkaline accumulators, either nickel-iron or nickel-cadmium types.
9(7) In The Workshop – test-tube rack
A DIY test tube rack, made from sheet metal folded in a Z form.
11(9) Compensated respirometer
A design using two 20ml plastic syringes, the nozzles of which fit directly into three-way taps.
12(10) Polythene dip-coating
Details of a dip-coating process which covers metal objects with a layer of polythene
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Upcoming exhibitions, Back numbers of bulletins
3(1) Opinion
In-service training
5(3) Surplus equipment available
7(5) Beat frequency experiment
A method for experimental verification that the beat frequency between two oscillations is the difference between the individual frequencies.
8(6) The school pond
A request for comments, specifications etc.
8(6) Microscope test procedure, correction.
A clarification and correction of the item in Bulletin 46.
9(7) Display Laboratory
Latest additions.
10(8) In The Workshop – polarimeter
A simple design for a DIY polarimeter.
12(10) Gas collector
A quick method of providing from gas generators of various types an individual pupil sample, usually in a test-tube.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement — stereomicroscopes
A summary of tests carried out on a selection of stereo-microscopes.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Microscope testing
3(1) Chemical hazard
How to safely carry out the zinc-sulphur reaction.
5(3) Cost of gas preparation
The comparative costs of obtaining a sample of the commoner gases
5(3) Toluene, erratum
In Bulletin 41 we incorrectly referred to toluol rather than toluene.
5(3) Flame tests for halogen ion
The presence of a halogen element in organic compounds can sometimes be demonstrated by a simple flame test.
6(4) Gas storage and delivery
An aspirator can be used in conjunction with a polythene bag to give a controlled supply of dry air., or of any other gas.
6(4) Molecular weight determination
An alternative to the method described in Bulletin 21
7(5) specification and test procedure for H grade microscopes
The specification and test procedure for H and post-H grade microscopes replace those given in Bulletins 7, 9 and 11.
13(11) Trade news
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
Metrication and SI units
3(1) Oxidation of ethanol
A safe method to oxidise ethanol to acetic acid by passing it over heated copper oxide.
5(3) Coddington lenses
We find some examples.
5(3) Gas analysis tubes
Gas analysis J-tubes is usually controlled by an OBA screws. We have a cheaper/simpler version.
5(3) Locust supply
We have locusts to spare.
6(4) Manometer liquid
A safer option is congo red in aqueous solution.
6(4) Test Reports
List of test reports on: microscopes, centrifuges, balances, Conductivity Apparatus and pH meters.
8(6) Trade News
10(8) In The Workshop – projection air table
The air table described is intended as a demonstration piece of apparatus for use with an overhead projector,.
12(10) Storage of connector leads
A suggestion for a rack for the storage of connecting leads.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – microscopes
A summary of tests carried out on microscopes.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Programme of future exhibitions, SSSERC services
4(2) Reports summary
A summary of the various equipment reports published since SSSERC’s inception.
8(6) Transistor amplifier
A circuit is given for a low input impedance pre-amplifier suitable for working into an oscilloscope.
9(7) Display Laboratory
An updated list of the apparatus on display
10(8) Trade News
11(9) In The Workshop – mobile fume cupboard (Part 2)
Ne continue here the description of the mobile fume chamber which was started in Bulletin 43.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Holiday closures
391) Opinion
Polaroid cameras and the Scottish market.
3(1) Laboratory accidents
Zinc-sulphur explosion, explosion on heating clay that is still damp, explosion when oxidising ethanol, explosion due to blocked tube, too small a cork in ammonia fountain experiment, phosgene generated by carbon tetrachloride fire extinguisher, explosion while reducing metal oxide in hydrogen.
5(3) Small quantity packs of hazardous chemicals
Griffin and George have acted quickly by packaging some chemicals in smaller quantities.
6(4) Electrolysis electrode
A simple design.
6(4) Mercury in floorboards
A useful tip for the treatment of non-recoverable mercury which is lodged in cracks between floorboards.
6(4) Chemicals list additions
The following chemicals are needed for teaching chemistry to ‘O’ level and were omitted from our list.
7(5) Mobile fume cupboard
The mobile fume cupboard described in the Workshop section of this Bulletin was originally designed by CLEAPSE for their own use, but has since been manufactured on a commercial scale.
7(5) Cameras for photography
Cameras mentioned in Bulletin 41 are all sold.
7(5) Bi-metallic strip sales
8(6) Surplus equipment available
10(8) In The Workshop – mobile fume cupboard
A design to make your own DIY fume cupboard.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – microscope summary
A summary of tests carried out on microscopes.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Conversion to natural gas, Stereomicroscopes
4(2) Mounts for electrical components
A new and inexpensive type of mount for small electrical components.
4(2) Polaroid cameras
There is now no camera in the Polaroid range which is suitable for stroboscopic photography.
4(2) Natural gas burners
We decided that we should investigate the operation of whatever natural gas burners we could lay our hands on.
9(7) Specification for stereo microscopes
The minimum features necessary for satisfactory performance on both ‘O’ and ‘H’ grade syllabuses, of stereomicroscopes.
10(8) Test procedure for stereo microscopes
The way in which test reports on stereo microscopes will be set out
13(11) Integrated Science – Coddington lenses
Our search for true or imitation Coddington lenses.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Future exhibitions
3(1) Surplus equipment available
5(3) Chlorine – methane reaction
Details of the reaction between chlorine and methane initiated by ultra-violet light.
6(4) Collecting gases over water
Filling a test-tube with a gas sample when the gas is collected over water.
6(4) Polystyrene solvent
Replacement for benzene (Erratum: for toluol, read toluene)
6(4) Test-tube holders
Dangers when heating wire type test-tube holders.
7(5) Trade News
8(6) Integrated Science Course
Worksheet folders: how schools are containing the worksheets
9(7) Photography
Supplies of cheap cameras for the ISC.
10(8) Between the eyes
We are currently testing stereomicroscopes, and require information on the eye separation distance to be found in pupils who will use these microscopes.
10(8) In The Workshop – chlorine – methane experiment
Details of the apparatus used for the reaction between methane and chlorine, discussed on p.3 of this Bulletin.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – low voltage power supplies
A summary of tests carried out on low voltage power supplies.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Surplus equipment, Bulletin reprints, Development Committee
3(1) Opinion
Hazardous chemicals and quantities to purchase.
5(3) Chemistry Notes
Hazardous chemicals – a proposal for a manual for schools : we ask for comments.
6(4) Laboratory accidents
Accidental ignition of diethyl ether.
6(4) Disposal of hazardous chemicals
Hearing that the Chemical Engineering Division of A.E,R.E., Harwell, had offered such a service, we contacted them and give below the reply we received.
7(5) Explosion hazard of ethers
The dangers of peroxide formation, especially from isopropyl ether.
8(6) Integrated Science Course
We look at some of the equipment suggested.
9(7) Display Laboratory
Latest additions
10(8) In the workshop – kinetic energy experiment
The piece of apparatus to be described is the simplest we have seen for demonstrating that the kinetic energy of a body is proportional to v2.
12(10) Address List
13(11) Bulletin Index, Nos. 30 – 39
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Appointment of biologist, Future exhibitions
3(1) Surplus equipment available
5(3) Inverse square law experiment
Comments and improvements on the Coulomb inverse square law experiment in our previous Bulletin.
5(3) Gas-liquid chromatography
Following complaints by several teachers that sixth form projects on gas-liquid chromatography using a katharorneter detector gave very poor, if any, results, we investigated the techniques involved.
12(10) Muscle contraction display
Apparatus is described that allows muscular contraction, e.g. from a frog heart preparation to be displayed on a long persistence screen oscilloscope.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion
Transistor power supplies, Metrication problems
4(2) Coulomb inverse square law
Experiments on the Coulomb law of electrostatic force feature in the Certificate of Sixth Year Studies Physics course and Philip Harris have produced a modified beam balance for measuring the force in question.
7(5) Hazardous chemicals
The possible future publication of a manual on hazardous chemicals. As an interim measure we give details below of the type of hazard associated with the chemicals listed by us.
9(7) Aquarium aeration
Our struggles to find a motor that will run long enough on battery power to keep aquaria aerated over weekends.
9(7) Lung contamination experiment
We show how an experiment may be set up to bring home to pupils (and teachers?) the quantities of tarry contaminants entering the lungs during cigarette smoking.
10(8) Aquarium aerator
An aquarium aerator is described which uses the pressure of the water supply to force air into the aquarium with or without a diffuser.
12(10) Trade News
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – E.H.T. power supplies
A summary of tests carried out on a further selection of E.H.T. power supplies
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Development Committee changes, A.S.E. Annual Meeting, Future SSSERC exhibitions
3(1) Opinion
Dry ice use, ‘Inertia’ selling and buying.
5(3) North Sea gas
We recently asked the Scottish Gas Board for a statement on the position regarding the introduction of North Sea gas into Scotland and how this would affect schools.
5(3) Glassware rationalisation
A reduction in the sizes and types of glass apparatus should ease the storage problem in schools. We suggest a list that schools might have.
6(4) Gas sampling
A simple method of sampling the gas to decide if the collecting vessel is full.
6(4) Gouy experiment
Investigating paramagnetism without interfering with the balance.
7(5) Use of lasers
Becoming available. An upcoming code of practice.
8(6) Trade News
9(7) In The Workshop – ticker timer
A design for making your own ticker timer.
10(8) In The Workshop – longitudinal waves
The model to show resonance in a spiral spring, constructed for display by an overhead projector.
12(10) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Surplus equipment, I.S.C. (Integrated Science Course) worksheets
4(2) Opinion
S.Y.S. chemicals and safety
5(3) pH meters
We were asked to test and report on pH Meters suitable for school use.
7(5) Ring main model
Following the publication of our ring main model in Bulletin 33, we had a noteshowing how this may be set up using standard equipment.
7(5) Physics equipment list errata
8(6) Surplus equipment available
8(6) Electron orbital model making
Background material for the model cutting jig described in the workshop section of this Bulletin .
9(7) In The Workshop – Electron orbital model jig
A simple way of making models showing electron orbitals.
12(10) In The Workshop – respiration experiment
How a comparison of inhaled and exhaled air can be made for a small organism using pupil apparatus which can be made up in pupil quantity.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – pH meters
A summary of the tests carried out on a selection of pH meters
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Equipment lists
4(2) Opinion
Metrication and chemical nomenclature.
4(2) Microprojection technique
Projecting an image from a normal microscope.
5(3) Thermistor thermometer
Notes for the guidance of teachers who may wish to construct a thermistor thermometer.
7(5) Animal movement
A simple device for showing animal movement.
7(5) Drosophila preservation
Update to the article in Bulletin 33.
8(6) Supply of bimetallic strips
8(6) Surplus equipment available
10(8) Ignition temperatures of crude oil fractions
A simple qualitative method.
10(8) Trade News
12(10) In The Workshop — kinetic motion model
Construction of a model that demonstrates thermal expansion, evaporation and boiling;
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – top pan balances
A summary of the tests carried out on a selection of top pan balances.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Equipment lists
4(2) Opinion
Metrication and chemical nomenclature.
4(2) Microprojection technique
Projecting an image from a normal microscope.
5(3) Thermistor thermometer
Notes for the guidance of teachers who may wish to construct a thermistor thermometer.
7(5) Animal movement
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Councillor Melville Dinwiddie retirement.
3(1) Opinion
Top pan balances
4(2) Infra red spectrograms
Explanatory booklet and spectrographs from Strathclyde University.
5(3) Pupil desiccators
A simple DIY design for a dessicator.
5(3) Errata re centrifuges and balances.
5(3) Display Laboratory
Additions to the display.
6(4) Trade News
8(6) Nim – a mathematical game
Nim is a mathematical game for two players, giving practice in the use of binary counting.
12(10) In The Workshop — a Nim machine
Construction of a Nim machine.
14(12) Address List
A simple device for showing animal movement.
7(5) Drosophila preservation
Update to the article in Bulletin 33.
8(6) Supply of bimetallic strips
8(6) Surplus equipment available
10(8) Ignition temperatures of crude oil fractions
A simple qualitative method.
10(8) Trade News
12(10) In The Workshop — kinetic motion model
Construction of a model that demonstrates thermal expansion, evaporation and boiling;
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – top pan balances
A summary of the tests carried out on a selection of top pan balances.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Autumn exhibitions.
3(1) Opinion
Primary school environmental studies – we put a toe in the Primary waters.
4(2) Test Reports
A list of SSSERC and CLEAPSE reports that may be borrowed.
6(4) Preserving drosophila
How to preserve a collection of adult flies which can be studied by pupils.
6(4) Choice chambers
Glass tubing as a graduated alternative.
7(5) Chick embryos
Advice on opening eggs.
7(5) In the Workshop – Brownian motion model
A number of magnets rotate on a turntable under a ‘platform’ of formica or other plastic, and cause small steel ball bearings on the platform to move in a random manner.
9(7) In the Workshop – ring main model
A model that shows clearly the advantages in using a ring main circuit for delivering electrical power.
11(9) Bulletin Supplement – centrifuges
A summary of the tests on a second series of centrifuges.
12(10) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
SSSERC services
5(3) Opinion
Scientific gaffes in the media.
5(3) Trade News
7(5) Instant cold frame
A cold frame which can be built in a few minutes from polystyrene tiles
7(5) Extracting living material from soil
To extract living material from a soil sample for examination, it is best to encourage the organisms to move out under their own power.
7(5) Pitfall trapping
An easy method.
7(5) Second-hand physics equipment available.
8(6) Transformer fuses
The results of tests on different fuses.
9(7) In The Workshop – pipette filler
A simple and inexpensive pipette filler design.
10(8) In The Workshop – 4 mm lead storage
A suggestion for a 4mm lead kit for the individual pupil, which can be checked for contents at a glance and is readily stackable for storage.
11(9) In The Workshop – colour wheel
A disc is painted in a pattern of black and white lines. ‘Then rotated at speeds between 1 and 15 revolutions per second, colours are seen.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – power supplies
A summary of tests carried out on a further selection of power supplies
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Staff changes, Exhibition programme
3(1) Opinion
S.I. Units – again.
4(2) Constant current power unit
A constant current power supply unit designed for coulometric titrations.
5(3) Second-hand physics equipment available
8(6) Display Laboratory
Recent additions
8(6) Trade News
9(7) In The Workshop – Demonstration DCC. motor
A model of a DCC motor that we like because its size makes it possible for a pupil to see the commutative action,
12(10) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Distribution of Equipment lists, Exhibition date, SSSERC postal code
3(1) Opinion
S.I. Units
5(3) Trade News
7(5) Stuck glass tubing
2 tips to free up stuck glass tubing.
7(5) In The Workshop – plankton net
An effective plankton net can be made from a ladderless nylon stocking, cut off just above the heel.
8(6) Meter mount
Construction of amount for a MR65 size meter.
9(7) Bulletin Supplement – low voltage transformers
A summary of tests carried out on a second selection of low voltage transformers
10(8) Address List
11(9) Bulletin Index, Nos. 20 – 29
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Equipment exhibitions, Second hand equipment for sale, Exhibition programme.
4(2) Opinion
Safety in laboratories and technician training.
5(3) Low Voltage Transformers
The procedures used to test transformers for providing low voltage AC.
7(5) Display Laboratory
Latest additions.
8(6) Ether engine
Omissions from the article on the ether engine published in Bulletin 27.
8(6) Electrostatics experiment
A very simple method of demonstrating the identity of current and static electricity.
8(6) New syllabus equipment list
We are currently revising the equipment list for the new biology syllabus which was published in Bulletin 23.
8(6) Light meter
Modification of indoor model for outside use.
9(7) Trade News
10(8) In The Workshop – liquid dispenser
A DIY dispenser for liquids.
11(9) Bulletin Supplement – low voltage transformers
A summary of tests carried out on low-voltage transformers
12(10) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Mr. A.J. Mee, O.B.E. an appreciation.
4(2) Opinion
The move over to the Continental System of colour Coding of mains driven apparatus
4(2) Mammals for biology
The problems of using mammals in biology experiments.
5(3) ASE Annual Meeting,
A report of this year’s meeting in Bristol.
6(4) EHT Power Supplies
Requirements for EHT supplies used in schools.
9(7) In The Workshop – mammal traps
A simple arrangement to trap small mammals alive and unhurt.
10(8) In The Workshop – Mud scoop
Another use for a 2 lb syrup tin.
10(8) In The Workshop – electrolysis cell
An easy construction from a detergent bottle.
11(9) Trade News
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – EHT power supplies
A summary of tests carried out on E.H.T. power supplies.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Staff changes, Holiday closures.
3(1) Trade News
4(2) Uses for wooden circuit boxes
A few of the uses we have fot.md for these boxes.
5(3) Polar molecules
One method of demonstrating the existence of polarised molecules in organic compounds is to measure the relative permittivity, or dielectric constant of the compound.
8(6) In The Workshop – U2 cell mount
Our method of mounting U2 cells so that they can be used with 4nm plugs.
9(7) In The Workshop – Ether engine
The ether engine published in the School Science Review, No. 167, p.219 is a good example of how a basic energy convertor works.
11(9) In The Workshop – marking machine
An electronic marking machine.
14(12) Address List
26 Nov 1968
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Bulletin reprints
3(1) Opinion
Primary school science – a few ideas.
4(2) Experiments with a large capacitance
Some interesting experiments that can be carried out with access to a large capacitor.
7(5) Display Laboratory
The latest additions to the display.
7(5) Trade News
8(6) In The Workshop – pupil chromatography
With simple equipment one of the problems to be overcome is the evaporation of the solvent, so that a technique which solves this problem may have some merit.
9(7) Tetrahedral jig
A jig for marking tetrahedrally spaced holes in expanded polystyrene spheres
11(9) Bulletin Supplement – low voltage power supplies
A summary of the tests carried out on a further selection of low voltage power supplies
12(10) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Integrated Science Course, Equipment lists.
3(1) Opinion
A New Biology Catalogue
4(2) Centrifuges
Four models of centrifuge have been tested in the Centre.
5(3) Colorimeter
A colorimeter which is adequate for determining the concentrations of solutions by comparisons against a standard can be constructed using a cadmium sulphide photo-cell.
7(5) Fertilisation using pomatoceros
Our experiences in this technique.
9(7) Vitamin C testing
Stability (or otherwise) of reagents.
9(7) In The Workshop – light meter for biology
A simple light meter for ecology fieldwork.
11(9) Bulletin Supplement – centrifuges and High Voltage supplies
A summary of the results of tests carried out on two of the four centrifuges mentioned on page 2 and on two high voltage supplies.
12(10) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Farewell to Mr. F.D.R. Belford, Future exhibitions
4(2) Equipment loan
A reminder of equipment which we are prepared to lend to schools.
4(2) Tunnel diode oscillator
A physics project which is cheap, simple and yet bang up-to-date can be found in the tunnel diode oscillator.
5(3) High Voltage Power Supplies
Background to our testing of HT supplies.
7(5) Vuespec auxiliaries
The Vuespec spectrometer, produced by Morris Laboratory Instruments works perfectly well with alternative, cheaper auxiliary equipment.
9(7) Trade News
10(8) Display Laboratory
The latest additions.
10(8) In The Workshop – solar motor
Some teachers may have been discouraged from constructing the solar motor which we published in Bulletin 8. We offer a simpler version.
11(9) In The Workshop – statistics/graph board
A statistics frame for displaying the results of class experiments
12(10) In The Workshop – forearm model
A realistic working model of the forearm which is an improvement on that described in Bulletin 13.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – high voltage power supplies
A summary of the results of tests carried, out on high voltage power supplies
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Future exhibitions, Second hand equipment.
4(2) Opinion
Relationship with Local Authorities.
4(2) Biology Equipment List
List of equipment needed for teaching the current biology courses.
13(11) Trade News
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
SSSERC services, Reprints, SSSERC and CLEAPSE.
3(1) Test Reports
SSSERC and CLEAPSE reports available to borrow.
6(4) Opinion
ASE Scotland conference.
7(5) Fuel/oxygen explosion
The explosion of a fuel mixture and air by electric spark will not work with petrol unless you use oxygen instead of air.
7(5) Display Laboratory
The latest additions.
8(6) Trade News
9(7) In The Workshop – pinhole photography
We describe a method of making a negative on 35 mm film which, apart from loading the camera, can be done by the pupil himself.
11(9) Bulletin Supplement – low voltage power supplies
The results of the second selection of low voltage power supply units which we have tested.
12(10) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
No more electroscope testing, Proposed new biology syllabuses, SSSERC exhibitions, Easter closures.
3(1) Low Voltage Power Supplies
We have been testing a number of low-voltage power supplies.
7(5) Gram molecular weight
Surprisingly accurate results for the gram molecular weights of the permanent gases can be obtained by the simple technique of injecting a measured volume of pure gas into a rigid container and determining its mass.
7(5) Organic preparations
We have carried out a series of organic preparations to determine the minimum grouping of apparatus necessary for carrying out these experiments.
11(9) In The Workshop – model mass spectrograph
The model mass spectrograph is an attempt to illustrate qualitatively that in passing through a magnetic field, and provided that they have the same velocity, heavier ions are deflected less than lighter ions.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – low voltage power supplies
(page is blank!)
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Apology to biologists, SSSERC overseas.
3(1) Opinion
Science Fairs
4(2) Density gradient column
Teachers of the post-Higher physics syllabus looking for a project might like to consider the construction of a density gradient column.
5(3) Macro-Millikan apparatus
A more robust alternative.
5(3) Display Laboratory
Latest additions to the display.
6(4) Trade News
8(6) Molecular weight determination
An elementary method of determining the molecular weight of heavy volatile liquids.
8(6) Split mercury threads
A novel way of repairing split mercury threads.
8(6) In The Workshop – small scale filtration
Low pressure filtration of the small quantities of material used in semi-micro work can be carried out using the apparatus described.
9(7) Gas generator
A simple, small-scale gas generator.
10(8) Pulse beat display
Two elementary pieces of apparatus are described which will illustrate the pulse beat.
12(10) Address List
13(11) Bulletin Index, Nos. 10 – 19
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Positive business experience. SSSERC Bulletins
3(1) Opinion
Use of film in schools
5(3) Mass Spectrometer
Explorations of the W.B. Nicolson mass spectrometer.
8(6) Physics Equipment List
A list prepared for the guidance of teachers requisitioning apparatus for the Certificate of VIth Year Studies.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Lending apparatus, Holiday closures.
3(1) Opinion
4(2) Physics equipment loan
Brief descriptions of the pieces of physics apparatus which we are prepared to lend to schools for use in projects,
6(4) Diffusion troughs
Shallow troughs for demonstrating diffusion can be cut from detergent bottles.
6(4) Electrode potentials
Comments on our item in the last Bulletin.
6(4) Equipment loan
Description of the colorimeter.
7(5) Trade News
8(6) In The Workshop – diffusion and osmosis experiments
A convenient method of employing Visking tubing
9(7) In The Workshop – transistor breadboard construction
We give details of an electronic breadboard. which can be used to assemble experimental circuits without soldering.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Look after your Bulletins, Distribution list, New telephone number.
3(1) Bottle labels
Simple labels made from detergent bottles.
5(2) Electrode potentials
The complexity with which one measures electrode potentials is up to the individual teacher
7(4) Display Laboratory
The latest additions.
8(5) Trade News
9(6) In The Workshop – sunshine recorder
A sunshine recorder can be constructed using a water-filled, round-bottomed flask as a spherical lens.
10(7) In The Workshop – electrode potential cell
Apparatus that illustrates that there is no tension in an elastic band supporting an object when both are falling freely.
13(10) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Membership.
3(1) Opinion
Science Advisors, Comprehensives.
4(2) Water barometer
The construction of an accurate water barometer is an impossible task because the final instrument will be temperature dependent, due to the vapour pressure of the waters.
5(3) The velocity of light
We give some indication to teachers of the possibilities in using a laser beam to determine the velocity of light.
7(5) Brownian motion
In common with many teachers we have thought it very desirable to be able to show the effect of temperature on molecular movement using a Brownian motion cell.
8(6) Trade News
8(6) Anodising aluminium
Anodising aluminium is perhaps as popular with the school’s technical department as it is with chemistry teachers.
9(7) In The Workshop – a gas generator
A pupil gas generator for hydrogen or carbon dioxide can be made from two plastic detergent bottles.
11(9) In The Workshop – a binary adder/subtracter
The design for the binary adder/subtracter given below was copied from a model shown by the B.B.C. on their stand at the A.S.E. conference at Nottingham last year.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – power supplies
We give below the second half of the summary on the reports on E.L.T. power supplies.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Opening the columns to a supplier.
3(1) Opinion
Recruiting teachers.
4(2) E. L.T. Power Supplies
We embark on some tests.
6(4) A.C. milliammeter
An alternetive imethod for measuring alternating currents when carrying out conductimetric titrations.
7(5) Exothermal reaction
An exothermic reaction which is safe for use by pupils themselves
8(6) Trade News
9(7) Amoeba culture
A method which we have found successful and which will provide a plentiful supply for months is outlined.
9(7) Damped oscillation
A suggestion for displaying a damped oscillation on the oscilloscope.
10(8) Aerocups
Dissolving in turpentine.
10(8) Display Laboratory
Latest additions
11(9) Bulletin Supplement – Power Supplies & Microscopes
(This page is blank)
12(10) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Opinion Page
3(1) De-ionised water
CLEAPSE have carried out an interesting survey in the comparative costs of producing distilled and deionised water.
4(2) Radiographs
Taking radiographs using radioactive sources is a straightforward procedure
5(3) Registration of radioactive sources
The registration procedure required by the Scottish Education Department
5(3) Microscope Tests
Modifications to the procedures outlined in “Microscope Tests” in Bulletin 7
8(6) Display Laboratory
Additions to the laboratory.
9(7) Trade News
10(8) In The Workshop – monkey and gun experiment
A set up with which we have achieved consistent results.
13(11) Bulletin Supplement – Microscope summary
(A blank page)
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Future exhibitions, Apparatus lists
3(1) Opinion
State control needn’t limit private school innovation.
4(2) Oscillatory motion
Whether this can properly be classified as an oscillation we leave the teacher to decide; from energy considerations it would seem very analogous to the pendulum clock.
4(2) Circuit board. connectors
Alternative methods of connecting components on the Worcester circuit board.
5(3) Mains lead clip
To avoid trailing leads.
5(3) Projectile motion
A method of showing the independence of horizontal and vertical motions in free fall
5(3) 300V power supply
Making one using a standard valve filament transformer.
5(3) induction coil usage
The use of induction coils is now banned in schools.
6(4) Silicone greases
Silicone greases should not be used to lubricate stopcocks on burettes or other graduated glassware.
6(4) Reagent standards
A dubious example of ‘purity’.
6(4) Trade News
8(6) Display Laboratory
Items added recently.
8(6) In The Workshop – Burette filler
A suggestion for an automatic burette filler.
9(7) In The Workshop – forearm model
A modification to the traditional forearm movement model.
9(7) In The Workshop – semi-circular canals model
A simple model of the ear’s semi-circular canals.
10(8) In The Workshop – perspex hot wire bender
A simple way to bend perspex sheeting.
12(10) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Availability of CLEAPSE reports, Development Committee meeting, Closing dates
3(1) Eudiometer tubes
An alternative to the now banned induction coil method.
4(2) Conductivity experiments
An error in the article in Bulletin 10
4(2) Soldering of carbon electrodes
A useful tip to make this easier.
4(2) Trade News
6(4) Copies of strobe photographs
A simple method of making copies of polaroid images.
7(5) In The Workshop – K.E. experiments with trolleys
A unit using dynamics trolleys to verify that P.d = 1/2mv2 and designed in Falkirk High School has been assembled and tested by us.
9(7) In The Workshop – A blanking – photo-electrical control unit
The photo-electric control used. with the trolley frame described above was made up in the Centres and offers a cheaper alternative than the commercial version.
10(8) In The Workshop – Auxanometer
An improved form of auxanometer which does not require a smoked drum, but records on ordinary paper and will give a carbon copy if needed, has been designed in the Centre.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Future exhibitions, New general science course
4(2) Opinion
Servicing of apparatus – “We need local science centres in every Education Authority”.
5(3) “Pearls in air” experiment –
What we feel is an easier method, using standard equipment has been notified to us.
5(3) Note on the supply of radioactive sources
A change in some specifications.
5(3) Erratum
Hysteresis loop correction to Bulletin 8.
6(4) Surplus components available
6(4) The Constant-Load Balance
The fore-runner of the constant-load, single-pan balance was the equal arm beam balance, still to be found in many chemistry laboratories.
10(8) Display Laboratory
Latest additions
12(10) Trade News
Supplement – Balances Summary
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Bulletin indices, Don’t throw away your old Bulletins, Holiday closures.
3(1) Conductivity Experiments
15 successful experiments carried out to provide evidence for the existence of ions and of their mobility in solution.
8(6) Trade News
10(8) In the Workshop – Low Voltage Power Unit
A simple method of generating uni-directional from alternating current
12(10) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Subscriptions
3(1) Opinion
Nuffield Biology
3(1) Microscope specifications
Specification for ‘O’, ‘H’ and post ‘H’ levels
4(2) Reaction times
Measurement of individual reaction times.
4(2) Lung model
Enhancing using a manometer
5(3) The Millikan Experiment
Details of how to carry out this seminal experiment.
8(6) Laboratory Workshop Equipment for sale
10(8) Measuring g
By free fall using apparatus from Griffin & George.
10(8) Direct vision spectroscope
Omission from article in the last Bulletin.
10(8) Shunts for Japanese meters
Varying resistances causing problems with our suggested modification in the last Bulletin.
11(9) Bulletin Supplement – Millikan’s apparatus
Report summaries and availability.
12(10) Address list
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Bulletin items, SSSERC on tour.
3(1) Trade News
4(2) Controlling liquid flow in a burette
Instead of the usual stopcoek or pinch clip on the burette, control can be easily achieved by means of a glass bead in a rubber or latex tube
4(2) Making plastic sulphur
A method which does not appear in any of the text-books
4(2) Physics Hints & Tips
4(2) Charge and potential
A demonstration of fundamental importance in electrostatics, in the way in which it illustrates the relationship between charge and potential, and incidentally teaches that a GLE measures potential and not charge.
5(3) Hysteresis loop
We give the circuit for showing hysteresis loop on an oscilloscope.
6(4) Adapting meters
As there are advantages in using the same instrument for all pupil work, we give below the use of wire length required to shunt this instrument for various currents.
7(5) Measuring g
All of the designs we have so far seen have a built-in and totally unnecessary error which raises doubts as to their accuracy.
8(6) In the Workshop – Impact switch for strobe photography
a simple design for an impact switch which does not involve a magnetic latch and which operates within 6ms.
9(7) In the Workshop – continuity tester
The tester is simple enough to be made by the pupils themselves.
9(7) In the Workshop – direct vision spectroscope
Making pupil spectroscopes.
10(8) In the Workshop – solar motor
How to make a simple solar motor.
12(10) Address list.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Testing of microscopes.
3(1) Opinion
Notes on compressed gases, Going metric.
4(2) Trade News
5(3) Display Laboratory
Latest additions.
6(4) Crystal microphone
This can be dismantled to show the piezo-electric effect.
6(4) Microscope Tests
Specifications and procedures for testing.
8(6) Physics equipment
The second half of the equipment list, the first of which appeared in Bulletin 6.
11(9) In the Workshop – Bird claw design
This apparatus demonstrates the perching mechanism in birds.
12(10) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Fees for direct grant and independent schools.
3(1) Opinion
Concern at the proliferation of power units, Streaming in schools.
4(2) Trade News
5(3) Display Laboratory
The latest additions.
5(3) Physics Equipment: Year IV
The first half of an equipment list.
11(9) In The Workshop – A Tidal Aquarium
This tidal aquarium once set up will keep marine animals healthy for considerable periods, 2 years and probably much longer with little attention.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Locating the Centre.
4(2) Opinion
The Edinburgh Science Teachers Bulletin, LA Science Centres.
5(3) Display Laboratory
New Additions.
6(4) Double beam
More on providing double-beam facilities on a single beam oscilloscope.
7(5) Energy conversions
We have recently employed a new Microlamp in a variety of circuits for illustrating energy conversions.
8(6) Detection of IR radiation
Detection of infra-red radiation as a demonstration experiment using an OCP7I photo-transistor
8(6) Low voltage heater
A tip for those making your own low-voltage heaters.
8(6) Trade News
10(8) A.S.E. Meeting
Report from the Scottish meeting in Edinburgh.
11(9) In The Workshop – copying Worcester Circuit Boards.
A sensible, cheaper, procedure in our view is to buy one and then set about copying
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Report from the first meeting of the Development Committee
4(2) Opinion
Testing microscopes, Transistorised equipment and warning lights.
6(4) Trade News
9(7) Display Laboratory
Recent additions.
10(8) Electrochemistry
Many chemists are demanding over—elaborate power supplies for use in these experiments.
10(8) Double-beam oscilloscope work
Teacher sometimes enquire whether we think a double-beam oscilloscope is a necessary tool in the physics course.
11(9) In The Workshop – smoke tunnel design
How to make a working smoke tunnel.
14(12) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3 Foreword
By Mrs. Judith Hart, M.P. – Joint Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Scotland.
4(1) Development Committee formed.
4(1) Opinion
Joe Stewart – experimental work in science
6(3) Display Laboratory
We are rapidly building up a stock of display material to such an extent that it is now no longer possible to put all items on display at once.
7(4) Valve characteristics
Pupils can carry out work on diode and triode characteristics without the use of H.T. Power units
8(5) Nuffield Version of Boyle’s Law Apparatus.
Features of this apparatus which might well be clarified.
8(5) Trade News
10(7) The Vacuum Pump
How it works and how to look after it.
11(8) In The Workshop – demonstrating the action of the Renal tubule
A simple but effective piece of apparatus for demonstrating the action of the Penal tubule can be made from two thistle funnels and a 30” length of 1.5mm inside diameter polyethene tubing.
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Appointment of Assistant Director, SSSERC operations, Holiday closures..
3(1) Opinion
Comprehensive schools and implications for science departments, Demonstration apparatus and “fiddling little groups”,
5(3) Ohm’s Law
Apparatus requirements for investigating Ohm’s law.
6(4) Variable transformer – making it safe.
Alterations to a potentially lethal purchase.
7(5) Display Laboratory
Latest additions.
8(6) Trade News
9(7) In The Workshop – pump for Nuffield Boyle’s Law apparatus
A cycle pump is more than adequate.
10(8) In The Workshop – Whitley Bay smoke cells for Brownian motion
A way in which a laboratory assistant could make these up, in pupil quantity, simply and cheaply.
12(10) Address List
The page numbers refer to the pages in the pdf. (The numbers in brackets are those given in the actual bulletin)
3(1) Introduction
Development and aims of SSSERC.
5(3) Opinion
Laboratory assistant/technicians
6(4) Trade News
9(7) Second-Hand Equipment
Working with scientific apparatus rejects from industrial research laboratories and university departments.
10(8) In The Workshop – Jobs for your lab technician.
11(9) In The Workshop – Storing lenses.
A design for a lens storage box
12(10) In The Workshop – Inflating balloons
Modifying a Woolworth’s product for use in the laboratory.
14(12) Address list
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