Believes that a student's understanding of energy concepts can be enhanced by introducing and using the concept of internal energy by articulating the first law of thermodynamics in a simple, phenomenological form without mathematical encumbrances. (Author/CCM)

Describes a game designed to familiarize students with nuclear reactions and the general geography of the table of nuclear isotopes by simulating the nucleogenic process. (CCM)

Explains the properties of charged objects, the nature of an electric charge, and interactions between electricity and magnetism. Suggests that the development of modern ideas about electricity and magnetism were not a linear progression. (Contains 34 references.) (Author/YDS)

Explains how Henry Cavendish performed an experiment to measure the density of the earth. Considers the problems that can arise in maintaining the anachronisms of his approach. (MM)

Uses ancient technology to teach about physics. Focuses on the atlatl, the trebuchet, and the fire plow to explain work, projectile motion, and the transfer of energy. (YDS)

Describes the development of Simple Projectiles Lesson And Test (SPLAT), an interactive multimedia presentation that targets students aged 16 and older and focuses on teaching the fundamental concepts of physics with a simple and exciting approach, and filling in the gaps of school physics curriculum. (YDS)

Examines which current A-level syllabuses include which bits of particle physics and surveys the many different types of resource available to teachers and students. (Author)

Describes a form of dimensional analysis based on a pack of cards for use with students aged 11-16. Presents new approaches to understanding the manipulation of simple equations, and also aids familiarization with the units involved and the relationships between them. Provides differentiation by altering the layout of the cards and varying the…

Presents some ideas for bridging between primary and secondary science phases including suggested activities and a look at some of the issues involved. (Author/ASK)

Summarizes the development of quantum theory, highlighting the contributions of Planck, Einstein, Schrodinger, and Heisenberg. (Contains 13 references.) (Author/ASK)

Indicates that boys and girls differ in physics instruction. Suggests that boys achieve higher grades and are more interested in learning physics than girls. Claims that boys and girls hold different notions of what it means to understand physics: girls seem to think that they understand a concept only if they can put it into a broader world view.…

Points out the potential of the moon as a rich teaching resource for subject areas like astronomy, physics, and biology. Presents historical, scientific, technological, and interesting facts about the moon. Includes suggestions for maximizing student interest and learning about the moon. (YDS)

Studied analogy generation and development and analogical reasoning with 25 German tenth graders in a physics class. Results show the advantages and disadvantages of using analogies in promoting conceptual change and as a teaching technique. (SLD)

Many years ago, Arons pointed out the incomprehension science students exhibit of the basic mathematical operations multiplication and division and the need to address the problem in physics classes to assure student understanding of the physical world. McDermott et al.'s Physics by Inquiry program does address this need directly and in detail (by…

Few things capture the spirit of spring like flying a kite. Watching a kite dance and sail across a cloud spotted sky is not only a visually appealing experience it also provides a foundation for studies in science and mathematics. Put simply, a kite is an airfoil surface that flies when the forces of lift and thrust are greater than the forces of…