Describes a set of activities designed to help students determine whether walking or running in the rain will keep you drier. Includes a range from simple to sophisticated formulas that attempt to consider a number of variables and some basic laws of physics in the calculations. (TW)

This teaching unit is designed to help students in grades 5 to 8 explore the concepts of geometry and algebra in the context of the force of drag. The units in the series have been developed to enhance and enrich mathematics, science, and technology education and to accommodate different teaching and learning styles. Each unit consists of…

In this paper we report an analysis of a teaching sequence in which Grade 11 students were asked to produce some graphs corresponding to the relationship between time and distance of a cylinder moving up and down an inclined plane. The students were also asked to carry out the experience using a TI 83+ graphic calculator equipped with a sensor,…

Provided is a review of a high school/college level computer program (for Apple microcomputers) which consists of six simulations designed to introduce students to simple harmonic motion. Includes a discussion of the six simulations and such information as time needed, probable classroom use, source, and current cost. (JM)

Use of motion pictures and videotape recordings to analyze animal behavior is described. Indicates that accuracy/amount of data available is greatly increased and that simultaneous behaviors of different animals can be studied or individual behavior patterns increased/decreased, providing observers with temporal perceptions similar to the animals…

Discusses: (1) construction of an integrated spherical reflectometer; (2) limitations of the NOAA Weather Radio Network; and (3) a simple experiment to demonstrate/measure influence of damping force on amplitude resonance. Also discusses whether or not a homemade electrophorus can lose its charge and then recharge itself. (JN)

Discusses Heisenberg's uncertainty principle in simple terms. Presents scientific examples leading to the development of the principle and describes popular misconceptions associated with it. (SK)

Investigates changes in preservice teachers' conceptions about projectile motion brought about by a combination of reading and demonstration and appeal to usefulness. Results indicate the effectiveness of a combined Demo-Text condition on immediate posttests and effectiveness of text in producing long-term change. Analysis also indicates an…

Studies the effect of V-Scope activities on the performance of 11th-grade students in analyzing kinematics graphs. Students were challenged to construct different kinds of graphs using their own movements as well as the motion of a dynamics cart. Results indicate that the V-Scope kinematics laboratory activities can promote kinematics concepts and…

Directions for the construction of this apparatus are presented. Materials and procedures for its use are discussed. The behavior of particles in the apparatus is described. (CW)

Defines and discusses jerk, the time rate of change of the acceleration. Presents some cases of jerk with mathematical expressions. Provides questions and problems for classroom use. Lists seven references. (YP)

Water rockets are used to present Newton's three laws of motion to high school physics students. Described is an outdoor activity which uses four students per group. Provides a launch data sheet to record height, angle of elevation, amount of water used, and launch number. (MVL)

Reports an experimental procedure for studying Einstein's theory of Brownian movement using commercially available latex microspheres and a video camera. Describes how students can monitor sphere motions and determine Avogadro's number. Uses a black and white video camera, microscope, and TV. (ML)

Describes the implementation of a new microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL) curriculum focusing on motion into a physical science course for preservice elementary teachers at Indiana University. Reports the results of tests administered to teachers before and after the motions unit. Discusses implications for instruction. (LZ)

Reports the design of the "Mechanics Baseline Test," an instrument to assess students' understandings about concepts in mechanics. Discusses how comparisons of test results with extensive baseline data can be used to evaluate instruction at all levels. Includes a copy of the instrument. (MDH)