Highlights a student project to study heat loss in a high school. Project goals, excerpts from project recommendations (indicating that several have been implemented in the school), and project activities are described. Points out that the project was successful in terms of teaching physics in a practical nature. (Author/JN)

Outlines a course in which toys are used to demonstrate physics concepts, stressing available or easily constructed toys. A recent lecture sequence included toys demonstrating equilibrium, force/torque, linear/angular momentum conservation, energy conservation/storage, flying, vibrations, programed music, and others. Illustrations of selected toys…

The construction of a homemade Kelvin water-drop electrostatic generator is suggested as an activity for teacher workshops. Materials needed before the workshop and instructions (including a diagram) for preparing the generator are provided. Suggested questions to pique workshop group's curiosity are also provided. (JN)

Reviews software for college/advanced high school-level physics designed to instruct/test students in vector arithmetic and analysis. Written for Apple II/II+ (Applesoft), the program menu contains seven items (including graphing and straight line fitting procedure). Excellent use of graphics and sound tutorial approach keep students' interest and…

Provides rationale (philosophical and practical) for teaching astronomy in secondary schools, suggesting that astronomical subject matter be incorporated into such areas as the physical sciences and mathematics rather than introducing an astronomy course. Also discusses careers in astronomy and ways to help teachers to reintroduce astronomy into…

Describes and evaluates one assignment from a unit designed to teach basic science concepts and instructional strategies to primary school teachers, specifically, the control of variables. (SK)

Suggests taking a relatively unsophisticated scientific theory and finding criticisms which could be leveled against it. Illustrates this instructional strategy by presenting a detailed criticism of the projectile theory of light. (SK)

A description and short extract are given of a tabulated history of astronomy, in which particular emphasis is placed on the interaction of astronomy with various disciplines. (Author/SK)

Discusses a role-playing technique used in a physics of music course that introduces students in a course for nonscientists to the thought processes and experiences of being a scientist. Students select a research project and present results as a journal article or an oral presentation at a scientific "meeting." (Author/JN)

Outlines advantages derived from constructing and using a Projectable Basic Electronics Kit and provides: (1) list of components; (2) diagrams of 10 finished components (resistor; capacitor; diode; switch; bulb; transistor; meter; variable capacitor; coil; connecting terminal); and (3) diode and transistor activities. (JN)

Discusses theory of the rotating mirror, its use in measuring the velocity of the electrical signal in wires, and the velocity of light. Concludes with a description of the manometric flame apparatus developed for analyzing sound waves. (SK)

Explores relationships between role-specific self-concept, as the dependent variable, and demographic data, constituting the independent variables, which included type and level of course, science letter grade from the previous semester, and gender of secondary school students (N=293) of grades 7-12. (CS)

Highlights scientific accomplishments in 1981. Focuses on space sciences, medicine, geology, chemistry, physics, zoology, paleontology, environmental problems, and genetics including such topics as the Space Shuttle, Mount St. Helen's endangered species, genetic engineering, and the scientists associated with these accomplishments. (JN)

Provides science activities and teaching hints appropriate for the middle school sciences including making a domino "gunpowder fuse" that detonates a mousetrap "bomb," using fishing rods and bicycles as teaching aids, constructing lead holders, and teaching chromatography. (DC)

Discusses aims of educational projects sponsored by British Petroleum Company (BPC) and British Gas Corporation (BGC). Includes rationale for including technology in school curricula and types of curriculum materials produced by BPC and BGC. (SK)