This article discusses how soap bubbles can be used to teach scientific principles such as phases of matter and the reflection of light. The study of soap bubbles addresses the National Science Education Standards for grades 5-8 related to the properties and changes of properties in matter. The exercises suggested here can be flexible in terms of…

This study explored the usefulness of an approach to science instruction which specifically considered children's spontaneous conceptions about natural phenomena. The aim of the instruction was the development of conceptual understanding. The instructional approach involved diagnosing children's spontaneous conceptions, making them aware of their…

Should a prism be centered to measure the apex angle and refraction index? Concludes that centering the prism is not critical, and that there is an interval for which the prism can be displaced. (YP)

Describes two demonstration experiments. Outlines a demonstration of the general principle of positive and negative feedback and the influence of time delays in feedback circuits. Elucidates the principle of negative feedback with a model of the iris of the eye. Emphasizes the importance of feedback in biological systems. (CW)

Describes a simulation in which students play roles of computer parts. Also describes cartesian divers and eye imagers prepared from empty detergent bottles and old 35-mm film cans respectively. Suggests using the divers and imagers as free give-aways during meetings or workshops. (JN)

Outlines two examples of the use of matrices to describe optical systems in introductory physics courses. Teaching packages on these two topics which have been developed at the University of Surrey in the United Kingdom for A-level and undergraduate students are also described. (HM)

Studying the history of science helps students develop a sense of science (and mathematics) as a dynamic, human enterprise, and also provides a better understanding of the role that science has played in the development of various cultures. It also shows students how difficult it was for scientific innovations to break through the accepted ideas…

The first section of this guide contains detailed instructions on how to stage a Microscopic Explorations Festival and an overview of learning station activities that can be used during such an event. The main section of this guide provides concise instructions for setting up each of the festival stations. For each station there is an overview,…

The project described in this report was conducted at the Community College of Luzerne County (Pennsylvania) to develop, in conjunction with area vocational-technical schools, the second year of a competency-based curriculum in laser/electro-optics technology. During the project, a task force of teachers from the area schools and the college…

There are many reasons for studying Antarctica. It is the key element in the world's climate. Some of the secrets of the earth's past are locked beneath its icecap. It has a fascinating physical environment and a unique and fragile ecosystem. It is a frontier of scientific research and technological development. Its history is an important and…

A project was conducted at the Community College of Luzerne County (Pennsylvania) to develop, in cooperation with area vocational-technical schools, the first year of a competency-based curriculum in laser/electro-optics technology. Existing programs were reviewed and private sector input was sought in developing the curriculum and identifying…

Presented are two case studies on the perspective of the history of science. Provided are the contributions of 12 famous scientists with their historical illustrations and diagrams. Five conclusions are drawn from these studies. (YP)

Reviews interesting and useful electrical, magnetic, and optical properties of the organic solid state. Offers speculation as to areas of fruitful research. Discusses organic superconductors, conducting organic polymers, organic metals, and traces recent history of creation of organic metals. (JM)

Lasers are useful for demonstrating ray optics, especially in large classrooms where a well-defined, easily-viewed ray is essential. Described is a simple device that converts any laser to a projection oscilloscope (or laser spirograph). Suggestions for using the device (including demonstrating Lissajous figures and conic sections) are provided.…

Describes simple methods of making both a reflection and a transmission hologram, as a teaching aid to stimulate students' interest in physics. Lists the various items of equipment necessary for making a hologram. (GA)