Expands upon the popular belief that mirrors cause the left-right reversal of objects placed in front of them. The image-location rule and image-symmetry rule are applied throughout the article to help summarize some important properties of mirror images. (ZWH)

Describes a semester long project that allows physics students to apply what they have learned by building a device that illustrates key physics concepts and principles. Assessment tips and classroom observations are also included. (ZWH)

Discusses how the Galilean balance equilibrium model can be used in the physics classroom to provide students with a model of intelligibility that would unify their thinking about motion and, at the same time, provide them with a general procedural schema for solving motion problems. (ZWH)

Describes a project designed to allow middle school students to learn some science concepts through application of science and mathematics lessons. (ZWH)

Testing using the Golden State Examination, a performance test that employs a variety of testing modes, revealed that students share several misconceptions in biology and chemistry. Some of these misconceptions are shared in this article. (ZWH)

Discussed are some of the topics at the forefront of modern astronomical research. Topics include quasars, black holes, and the beginning of the universe. The uses and types of telescopes are described, both spaceborn and ground based. (KR)

A procedure for estimating the speed and distance of plane, assuming the speed of sound and the velocity of the plane are constant, is described. (KR)

A procedure for measuring the speed of light using the assumption that the frequency of light remains unchanged as it moves from one medium to another is presented. A laser with a known wavelength and frequency in air was used as a light source. (KR)

Presents two studies investigating whether peer interaction can advance the physics understanding of primary schoolchildren. Concerns understanding of floating and sinking. Focuses on the relevant properties of objects and fluids. Finds progress in children interacting with peers having varied views whether the variation was a result of different…

Reports results of two studies using physics materials to determine the parameters of pictorial analogies in combination with expository text. Shows that pictorial analogies can improve learning significantly if they are designed properly and used together with the text. Concludes that the analogies should have high structural similarity between…

The discovery of radio waves, infrared, and x-rays and their importance in describing the universe and its origins is discussed. Topics include radio waves from space, the radio pioneers of World War II, radio telescopes, infrared radiation, satellites, space missions, and x-ray telescopes. (KR)

Discusses the heat-transfer systems of different animals. Systems include heat conduction into the ground, heat transferred by convection, heat exchange in lizards, fish and polar animals, the carotid rete system, electromagnetic radiation from animals and people, and plant and animal fiber optics. (MDH)

Describes the Colorado Scale-Model Solar System, a display illustrating the sizes and distances to the Sun and the nine planets on the campus of Colorado University. Discusses the model's educational value and uses for the classroom and the community. (MDH)

Recounts the contributions of Robert Goddard from the years of 1911 to 1930 to the development of the physics of rocketry. Discusses the results of Goddard's series of rocket experiments endorsed by the Smithsonian Institute, and Goddard's claims to priority in the development of rocket theory. (MDH)

By applying the principles and methods of mechanics to the musculoskeletal system, new insights can be discovered about control of human limb dynamics in both adults and infants. Reviews previous research on how infants gain control of their limbs and learn to reach in the first year of life. (MDM)