The simple physics behind the mechanism of the toy are explained. Experimental and mathematical steps are given that help in understanding the motion of the doll-pair. The geometry of the setup is described. (KR)

Describes a study of high school students that investigated the kind of knowledge bases mathematics students can develop and the difficulties that may appear. Discusses knowledge-base development within LISD (Learning through Intelligent Software Development), an approach to teaching and learning mathematical problem solving, specifically word…

Considered are parallel and perpendicular relative velocities and their effect on the minimum time it takes a boat to cross a river. (Author/MA)

Defines instructional roles of dynamic visual displays (DVDs), including animation and interactive video, and provides guidelines for using them in media-based instruction. Topics addressed include theoretical bases; examples of strategic applications of DVDs; six instructional conditions for using DVDs; and considerations for the design and…

Presents four examples of physics problems that can be solved with a graphing calculator. Problems included deal with motion, harmonic oscillations, sound waves, and blackbody radiation. (JRH)

Describes an activity that challenges students to apply their knowledge of motion to designing and constructing roller coasters. Emphasizes the processes students go through to communicate their ideas and the problem-solving skills they develop. (JRH)

A quantitative application of magnetic braking performed with an air track is described. The experimental measurement of the position of the glider as a function of time is calculated. (KR)

An example of how a traditional activity on motion and acceleration can be adapted to the learning-cycle format is described. The three challenge statements given to students to solve are provided. The key learning-cycle steps of exploration, expansion, and extension are discussed. (KR)

Discusses a misconception about the cycloid that asserts the final point on the path of shortest time in the "Brachistochrone" problem is at the lowest point on the cycloid. Uses a BASIC program for Newton's method to determine the correct least-time cycloid. (MDH)

Uses projectile motion to explain the two roots found when using the quadratic formula. An example is provided for finding the time of flight for a projectile which has a negative root implying a negative time of flight. This negative time of flight also has a useful physical meaning. (MVL)

The purpose of the present study was to examine whether the teaching of creative movement and improvisation can influence the development of movement synthesis ability. Movement synthesis ability refers to the production of a movement composition. Twenty-five female freshmen, physical education students, participated in the study. They created…

This document presents activities in the physical sciences. Activities are grouped in the following chapters: (1) "Science and Measurement"; (2) "Measurement Units"; (3) "Introduction to Chemistry"; (4) "The Periodic Table"; (5) "What is Inside an Atom?"; (6) "Bonding"; (7) "Formulas and Equations"; (8) "The Bursting Atom"; (9) "Relationships…

Uses a blackboard eraser to illustrate solutions to three problems commonly posed to students. The problems are determining (1) the frictional force acting on a stationary body; (2) the maximum acceleration a truck can have without sliding a tray of eggs sitting on the truck bed; and (3) the distance a horizontally thrown object will travel. (MDH)

Reports on the extent to which the Principle of Relativity was employed by students when dealing with various phenomena. Concludes that the Principle of Relativity is not used as an heuristic tool in students' answers, and that the situations presented were not regarded as "problematic" by the students, who primarily used interpretive…

Describes an activity in which students construct relationships between their leg lengths, stride lengths, and movements in order to estimate the speeds of the dinosaurs that made various fossilized tracks. (WRM)