Suggests two methods for measuring the specific latent heat of ice fusion for high school physics laboratories. The first method is an ice calorimeter which is made from simple materials. The second method improves the thermal contact and allows for a more accurate measurement. Lists instructions for both methods. (Author/YDS)

Defines the vibrations of a tuning fork against a computer monitor screen as a pattern that can illustrate or explain physical concepts like wave vibrations, wave forms, and phase differences. Presents background information and demonstrates the experiment. (Author/YDS)

Described are three experiments on the photometric, Gaussian, and image-forming properties of a helium-neon gas laser. Details of the experimental method and typical calculations with diagrams and graphs are provided. (YP)

Discussed are the selecting, assessing, and managing of students' investigational works showing how they fit in with the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Physics (mature) for London and the East Anglian Group. (YP)

Argues for an emphatic role for theory in everyday science teaching. Contrasts science's confidence in its theories with those of other sorts which students encounter in their everyday lives. Discusses common denominator science teaching in which teachers teach science in units based on different sciences. (DDR)

Introduces a laboratory experiment that investigates the key factors in determining the depth or diameter of an impact crater. (YDS)

Describes a thin film rectangular dielectric waveguide and its laboratory use. Discusses the theory of uniaxial thin film waveguides with mathematical expressions and the laboratory procedures for a classroom experiment with diagrams. (Author/YP)

Develops a teaching scheme for 11-13 year-olds based on different types of investigational practical work. Includes discussion of difficulties in investigations, four types of investigations, and deployment in the curriculum. (YP)

Discusses a visit to a hospital to help students gain an appreciation of technological application. Describes the potential, general and specific considerations, and evaluation of such a field trip. (YP)

Lists the benefits of hands-on experiments that are both low-cost and high-tech. Details four examples which include the use of contact lenses and compact disks. (DDR)

Described are efforts of the Open University (United Kingdom) to retrain physics teachers using distance learning strategies. Discussed are the teacher shortage, the program design, styles of delivery, group activities, content, teacher types, and the National Curriculum. (CW)

Develops a realistic group problem-solving exercise to analyze information, make deductions from presented facts, draw conclusions, and communicate these processes to others. Describes the national education system of New Guinea, the exercise, and some comments. Provides a technical and economic report and a worksheet for the exercise. (YP)

Describes an optional course in "computational physics" offered at the University of Birmingham. Includes an introduction to numerical methods and presents exercises involving fast-Fourier transforms, non-linear least-squares, Monte Carlo methods, and the three-body problem. Recommends adding laboratory work into the course in the…

Described is a mobile hands-on science program called "Light Works" that is brought directly into the classroom. The reasons for the implementation of "Light Works" into primary classrooms is discussed. The advantages and operation of this program are included. (KR)

Discusses a teaching method using investigational skills for Nuffield A-level Physics including assessment technique, change of the assessment criteria, advice for choosing the topic, and future development. (YP)