Three experiments were conducted to examine whether infants can detect the color of stationary and moving objects and maintain this discrimination over change in velocity. Subjects were 80 infants ages 8 to 20 weeks. (MP)

Described is an easy to assemble, and inexpensive, torsional pendulum which gives an accuracy of measurement of the modulus of rigidity, G, comparable to the accuracy obtained with the more expensive commercially available student models. (Author/GA)

Describes an apparatus which allows one to study the speed distribution, the gravitational distribution, and the mean free path of steel balls agitated into two-dimensional motion through collisions with the moving walls of their enclosure. (Author/GA)

Analyzes projectile motion using symmetry and simple geometry. Deduces the direction of velocity at any point, range, time of flight, maximum height, safety parabola, and maximum range for a projectile launched upon a plane inclined at any angle with respect to the horizontal. (Author/GA)

Describes classroom activities that involve student movement to demonstrate principles of kinetics. This classroom method can be used for any topic related to dynamic processes. The method used in this activity illustrates Brxnsted-Lowry acid-base theory and redox reactions. Takes advantage of analogies between proton and electron transfers. Use…

Proposes a mathematical way of thinking about how well a rolling object moves. Describes classroom activities that were carried out to measure and evaluate models of rolling objects. In theory, the activities lead immediately to the theory of convex sets. Also includes discussion on Reuleaux rollers. (AIM)

Describes an apparatus for demonstrating the second law of motion. Provides sample data and discusses the merits of this method over traditional methods of supplying a constant force. The method produces empirical best-fit lines which convincingly demonstrate that for a fixed mass, acceleration is proportional to force. (DDR)

Thirteen infants were presented with a moving object under two lighting conditions to investigate the role of vision in early reaching. Infants were tested twice, at 5 and 7.5 months of age. The results suggest that proprioceptive feedback and sight of the target allowed for successful reaching with limited visual information, even in relatively…

Introduces an activity in which students learn principles of force and motion, systems, and simple machines by exploring the best position of the dogs on the dashboard. Includes a sample lesson plan written in the five instructional models: (1) engagement; (2) exploration; (3) explanation; (4) elaboration; and (5) evaluation. (KHR)

Uses Muybridge's sequence of photos of a moving cat to examine how one might picture changes in the cat's velocity. Classroom implications include building on personally enacted physical experience and recognizing uncertainty as fundamental. Concludes that carefully examined case examples are essential in teaching students to learn and reason…

Offers a psychological role that external representations can play in the process of refining intuitive ideas into scientific knowledge. Presents an argument for this role through historical analysis of Galileo's ramp experiments, then through documentation of an innovative 6th grade classroom activity. (Contains 19 references.) (Author/YDS)

Discusses pupil misconceptions concerning forces. Summarizes some of Assessment of Performance Unit's findings on meaning of (1) force, (2) force and motion in one dimension and two dimensions, and (3) Newton's second law. (YP)

Four questions related to rain concerning aerodynamic drag force, pressure from the impact of raindrops, impact of wind on the pressure, and stopping force extended on the car by the water are proposed. (YP)

Investigates the nature of college student difficulties with negative values of velocity by using interviews. Discusses graphical representation of negative values of velocity and interpretations of graphs involving negative values of force. Suggests some instructional implications from the discussion. (YP)

Examined whether children were likely to associate animate-type or inanimate-type of movement with living objects and whether this judgment varies with age. Children and adults participated in the study. Findings suggest that both knowledge about different life properties and overattribution are characteristic of the preschool period. (BAC)