There are many geometrical approaches to the solution of the quadratic equation with real coefficients. In this article it is shown that the monic quadratic equation with complex coefficients can also be solved graphically, by the intersection of two hyperbolas; one hyperbola being derived from the real part of the quadratic equation and one from…

We describe a simple case of non-localized interference produced with a glass plate and a laser beam focused on it. The proposed setup for observing interference is compact when semiconductor lasers are employed, and it is well suited for demonstration and comparison of interference in reflected and transmitted light in a large lecture-room. This…

Adopted at more than 1,000 colleges and universities worldwide, the market-leading text owes its success to the unique way in which it combines an academically robust account of the major theories and models of leadership with an accessible style and practical exercises that help students apply what they learn. Each chapter of Peter Northouse's…

Physics teachers often like to discuss physics concepts with their students on the basis of simple demonstration experiments. In this article, we discuss an experiment for which one only needs a few coins of the same denomination and a wooden stick: the coins are laid alongside the stick on a horizontal surface, the stick is rotated about one of…

This article describes a hands-on activity and demonstration developed at the University of Washington and further reined at the University of New Mexico. In this activity, the authors present a real-world problem to the student: Someone has an injured finger joint, and the students in the class need to design an implant to replace it. After…

Classroom experiments on atmospheric pressure focus largely on demonstrating its existence, often in a most impressive way. A series of amusing physics demonstrations is widely known and practiced by educators teaching the topic. However, measuring the value of atmospheric pressure(P[subscript atm]) is generally done in a rather mundane way,…

Research indicates that students with exceptionalities such as visual impairments are more academically successful when they are included in the regular classroom setting and have opportunities to engage in active learning. Therefore, science educators must address their needs by motivating visually impaired students in science and making…

This module, one in a series of 127 performance-based teacher education (PBTE) learning packages, focuses on specific professional competencies of vocational teachers. The competencies upon which these modules are based were identified and verified through research as being important to successful vocational teaching at both the secondary and…

Science fairs have the potential to help students develop new ways of solving problems using a scientific approach. This document is intended to be used by junior high students in planning and developing a science fair project. Several suggestions are offered to help students decide on a project, with a listing of 60 topical areas in science…

Six issues of a University of California, Los Angeles, (UCLA) newsletter by and for teaching assistants (TAs) are presented. Each newsletter is a theme issue, covering writing, anxiety, motivation, TA role, and TA training. Topics include: student problems and psychological and counseling services, philosophies about writing, approaches to making…

This laboratory manual was designed for use by students in postsecondary courses that prepare them to be child caregivers or directors. The workbook is especially useful for students in lecture-laboratory courses on mainstreaming children with special needs into regular child care settings. This manual, designed as a laboratory experience guide…