Provides instructional models for solids, liquids, and gases that incorporate a few adjustments for keeping the features and scale as valid as possible. States that 99 percent of the material in the universe is in a dominant form called plasma. (RT)

Explains changes in the scientific world view. Describes the classical mechanistic-reductionist paradigm and some modern examples of changes including evolution, self-organizing universe, non-linearity, subjectivity, and software. (YP)

Presents background information related to astronomy for high school students. Discusses the differences between astronomy and astrophysics, and the employment of the astronomy graduates. Lists degree programs in astronomy and related subjects in an appendix. (YP)

Discussed are several topics on medical imaging including x-rays and Computer Assisted Tomography (CAT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging, fiber optics endoscopy, nuclear medicine and bone scans, positron-emission tomography, and ultrasound. The concepts of radiation dosage, electrocardiograms, and laser therapy are included. (YP)

Examined are tenth-grade Western Australian students' conceptual knowledge of gravity and the motion of the planets. Students were interviewed with seven cards, and a four-item diagnostic test based on the interview data on the first four cards was developed. A total of 113 students' responses to the test are summarized. (YP)

Discusses the etymology of physics words. Provides a list of English words and their original meaning. (YP)

Describes ways to make use of lab activities and time for effective learning and student motivation. Provides information on the classification of lab activities, class data for measuring student power output, and a sample pre-lab "think sheet" activity. States the importance of relating activities to topics studied. (RT)

The teaching of physics through the medium of integrating technology is considered. This article reports on the teaching strategy employed and the choice of suitable examples of technology. Possible extensions of the strategy to other science fields are also discussed. (Author/CW)

Presents a collection of suggestions, ideas, and reminiscences relating the first-day classroom activities of 13 different teachers at high schools and colleges. (YP)

Describes the physics displays at the University of Canterbury (New Zealand), including the facility, static displays, and interactive displays. Discusses the basic philosophy, general principles, and evaluation of the displays. (YP)

Proposes that physics teachers play the role of Galileo. Describes historical resources, costumes, materials, makeup, and objectives of the role-play. Provides three references on Galileo. (YP)

Describes the educational system and national preparations for the International Physics Olympiad of the Soviet Union and Romania. Suggests some recommendations for American education. (YP)

Examined are implications for biology teachers of proposed changes in the national biology curriculum in Great Britain. Access to teacher training, and the nature of teacher education courses are stressed. Future prospects for inservice and preservice teachers are discussed. (CW)

Discusses a tutorial slide package for oscilloscope operation. Provides source address and price for obtaining it. (YP)

Evaluates an elementary textbook (Journeys in Science, volume 3) on thermodynamics. Points out some inadequate expressions and explains the reasons. (YP)