Picture a jeweler at work. Magnifier in hand, he examines a stone, studying the way light dances off it. He’s trying to determine whether it’s a diamond or merely cut glass, of engagement-ring quality ...

Science books, especially those written by scientists, sometimes have the reputation of being dry, dull and difficult. Perhaps they are thought of as thinly disguised textbooks, something to learn ...

Editor’s Note: In 1988, a teacher most commonly had 15 years of experience. In recent years, that number is closer to just three years leading a classroom. The “On Teaching” series focuses on the ...