Discusses the following: another version of Doppler beats; alternate proof of spin-1 sin-1/2 problems; some mechanisms related to Dirac's strings; Doppler redshift in oblique approach of source and observer; undergraduate experiment on noise thermometry; use of the time evolution operator; resolution of an entropy maximization controversy;…

Describes a simple method to measure the size of the Earth to an accuracy of order of magnitude 10 percent. The procedure involves finding the time interval between two sunsets, a sunset observed at sea level while lying down, and a sunset viewed at eye height after standing up. (GA)

Discusses the meaning of readability, and describes several popular methods of assessing it. Gives the results of the application of one particular method to a selection of elementary astronomy and physics texts. (Author/GA)

Discusses a photograph of an unusual combination of lunar halos: the 22-degree refraction halo, the circumscribed halo, and a reflection halo. Deduces the form and orientations of the ice crystals responsible for the observed halo features. (MLH)

Describes the topics covered and methods used in a liberal arts astronomy course on photographing the night sky. (MLH)

Describes "Expanding Universe: a classified search tool for amateur astronomy," a Web site maintained by the Metropolitan Toronto Reference Library which uses a modified form of the Dewey Decimal Classification to organize a large file of astronomy hotlinks. Highlights include structure, HTML coding, design requirements, and future…

Outlines several activities and games in which students play the roles of sun, earth, and moon at different times of the day, month, and year. (DKM)

Discusses the gender gap in science classrooms and how it relates to the confidence and competence of female students in astronomy. Cites specific instructional techniques that are helpful in increasing the participation of females in science and specifically recommends involving students in research. (DDR)

Describes investigations in archaeoastronomy that combine modern archaeology with the mathematical precision of practical astronomy. Helps students develop an understanding of a society's astronomical systems which can lead to a knowledge of their religion, art, mathematics, writings, calendar, myths, and agricultural practices. (JRH)

Explains how Venus changes visibility regularly from morning to evening because of its quick orbit time during part of the year. Includes a brief history of observations of this phenomenon and provides a detailed account from the Australian Aborigines. (DDR)

Discusses various ways to use the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Origin's Education Forum's Electromagnetic Spectrum poster to teach earth science concepts. Includes the poster. (SOE)

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)

Presents an activity involving the observation of moon phases that can provide a one-on-one learning experience and stimulate interaction between a child and an adult family member. This activity can also be initiated by teachers and outcomes can be integrated into the classroom science curriculum. (JRH)

Describes the problems involved in teaching astronomy so that teachers can be informed and forewarned. Focuses on the fact that teachers are not likely to be familiar with the content and unfamiliar with the problems associated with teaching the content. (DDR)

Describes a lesson for ninth-grade science students based on a read-aloud selection about science in space taken from "Lift Off! An Astronauts Dream" by R. Mike Mullane. Discusses specific science and language arts activities related to the selection. (SR)