Presents a creative way to teach photosynthesis. Revolves around the growth of a lily planted and stored in the classroom. Combines the concepts of particle theory, transformation, and changes of phase and mass in a holistic approach. The six-step teaching sequence is founded on the notions of challenge, variation, and drama. (Author/NB)

Investigates how microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL) activities specifically designed to be consistent with a constructivist theory of learning support or constrain student construction of understanding. Analysis of students' discourse and actions reveal that students invented numerous techniques for manipulating data in the service of their…

Explores different ways individuals conceptualize quality learning in physics. Uses semi-structured interviews that explore aspects of learning that respondents regard as worth fostering in their classrooms. Discusses different respondent conceptions with regard to four significant aspects of physics learning: doing experimental work; linking…

Describes a science activity that promotes science process skills while investigating the properties of packing peanuts. (YDS)

Introduces a lesson plan on astronomy and scientific research. Explains how astronomers conduct research and the detection methods they use. Provides demonstrations and ideas for students to build a giant model of the solar system. (YDS)

Provides an overview of characteristics among Association of Research Libraries (ARL) physics Web pages. Examines current academic Web literature and from that develops six benchmarks to measure physics Web pages: ease of navigation; logic of presentation; representation of all forms of information; engagement of the discipline; interactivity of…

Uses the science fiction television show "Star Trek" as an instructional medium to teach physics concepts. Includes suggestions on how to motivate students through "Star Trek" episodes and the Internet. (YDS)

Compares student perceptions of their physics teachers' interpersonal behavior and teachers' self-perceptions of their behavior and their opinions about physics education in 1984 and 1993. Results indicate that teachers were more in favor of realistic teaching content in 1993 than in 1984 and behaved less dominantly and more cooperatively in 1993…

Considers the perspective that method is independent of subject matter and that certain areas might be better conceived of in terms of signs and interpretations rather than in terms of objects and interactions. Contains 32 references. (DDR)

Outlines a safer alternative to the traditional physics demonstration known as the "kicking wire" experiment. The new method eliminates the use of an open dish of mercury but is less dramatic in the visible effects it produces. (DDR)

Presents three designs for unusual boats that can be powered by flame, water, or sand. Suggests questions about extensions of these designs that could be useful for further exploration of the topic. (DDR)

Presents an experiment that investigates the temperature of tungsten filaments using a car headlamp. Uses a spreadsheet program that facilitates extensive data manipulation. Gives students an awareness of the many mathematical techniques used in data analysis. (Author/JRH)

Explains that in dynamics, the process of finding the direction of force acting on a moving object can be structured as a syllogism. Uses the syllogistic form of a scientific explanation task to help middle school students change their prior conceptions about force and motion. Reports four factors preventing students' use of deductive reasoning.…

Reports on an investigation of student understanding of the first law of thermodynamics. Involves students from a first-year university physics course and a second-year thermal physics course. Focuses on the ability of students to relate the first law to the adiabatic physics course. Discusses implications for thermal physics and mechanics…

Describes a novel method for inducing and measuring cosmic ray showers using a low-cost, microcomputer-based laboratory system. Uses low counting-rate radiation monitors in the reproduction of Bruno Rossi's classic experiment. (Contains 16 references.) (Author/YDS)