Physics First represents an organizational alternative to the traditional high school science sequence. It calls for a re-sequencing of high school courses so that students study physics before chemistry and biology. The purpose of this pamphlet is to provide: (1) Basic information and rationale for the Physics First curriculum; (2) Strategies for…

Influenced by the project entitled "Strategic Programs for Innovations in Undergraduate Physics", this document is intended to guide a physics department in initial, or mid-stream evaluation of a program of undergraduate physics education. The original Guidelines were developed by the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) in 1986. The…

The guidelines are meant to help two-year institutions provide physics students with the best possible education in the fundamental areas of physics and its relation to other disciplines and to society. General curricular guidelines, rather than specific curricular content, are defined. Implementing these guidelines can help ensure that the…

Describes the concepts behind the working of the Seiko "Kinetic" watch that uses ultracapacitors to store energy. (JRH)

Outlines the various activities students are involved in on Physics Students' Day at an amusement park and the mechanics of organizing this type of an event. Includes a real problem and the list of resource material. Suggests resource material for use with amusement park physics. (YP)

Introduces several one- and two-mode vibrating systems for demonstrations. Provides some recommendations for designing the corridor apparatus. (YP)

Described are videotapes for elementary school teachers. Outlines seven examples of demonstrations from physical science. Provides information on how to obtain the tapes. (YP)

Refutes 14 items from "Computer Test Bank for Heath Physical Science." Discusses the correct answers item by item. (YP)

Describes a high school physics teaching sequence including more modern topics. The first quarter covers cosmology, astronomy, optics, wave mechanics, relativity, gravity, and quantum theory. The second quarter covers classical mechanics. The third quarter covers electromagnetism and electronics. The fourth quarter consists of thermodynamics and…

Describes a demonstration of the transmission of data signals from one microcomputer to another using an optical fiber line. Discusses the set-up method and demonstration steps for sending program and graphics. Provides a block diagram of the system and two circuit diagrams. (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)

Describes making laboratory apparatus such as a heavy-duty turntable; a hand-held milk-carton accelerometer; an inverted air table; free-fall measurement with a solenoid as a starting device; and a bright point source. Presents an evaluation of "The Champ Universal Interface and Sensor Pack Software." (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)

Discussed is the use of model rocketry to teach the principles of Newtonian mechanics. Included are forces involved; calculations for vertical launches; two-dimensional trajectories; and variations in mass, drag, and launch angle. (CW)

Described are the theory and operation of Van De Graaff generators. The experience of one group of people in the reconditioning and repair of their apparatus is discussed. (CW)