Describes four body-lever models (biceps, triceps, back lever when lifting, foot lever and Achilles tendon muscle) used in noncalculus physics courses. Instructions for constructing the wooden models are provided. Also describes an improvement on a centripetal-force apparatus so that it is easier to operate. (JN)

Reviews "Laws of Motion" computer program produced by Educational Materials and Equipment Company. The program (language unknown), for Apple II/II+, is a simulation of an inclined plane, free fall, and Atwood machine in Newtonian/Aristotelian worlds. Suggests use as supplement to discussion of motion by teacher who fully understands the program.…

Several good features of a projectile motion experiment (students fire their own rockets) are described, including accuracy achieved, low cost and relative safety. Also described is a simple novelty toy (originally distributed by McDonalds foods) illustrating physics concepts. Blowing on this toy pipe propels a thread around in a loop. (JN)

Discusses several coupled pendulum systems suitable for classroom demonstrations or on an overhead projector. (SK)

Suggests criteria for constructing a "basic" physics program based on such premises as limited class time, time and practice needed for skill development/understanding structuring of subject matter, and choices of content and approach. Long-range objectives related to the list of premises are discussed. (SK)

Different ways in which the atmospheres of different planets have originated and evolved are discussed. Includes tables on the atmospheric composition of: (1) Earth; (2) Mars; (3) Venus; (4)Titan (Saturn's Satellite); and (5) the outer planets. (SK)

Discusses and lists, in table form, the specifications and characteristics of 28 low-cost digital multimeters, including jacks, number of V ranges, max V, cost, approximate percent accuracy, current scales, display, battery life, volume, and manufacturers. Quality of construction, ease of repair, and similar characteristics not reported. (SK)

Suggesting, from the results of an information study, that a dichotomy exists between learning physics and passing physics courses, explores the consequences of the dichotomy for standard lecture format and Personalized System of Instruction courses. Includes discussions of student responses to problem-solving approaches, textbook study, and…

Describes the development of a two-week National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded course at the Virginia Military Institute to promote the lecture demonstration technique. (SK)

Presents background information on and instructions for constructing a Hero's water fountain. Includes photographs of the apparatus from old textbooks and one in the collection of the National Museum of History and Technology at the Smithsonian Institution. (SK)

An experimental technique to develop inferential thinking in less scientifically-oriented community college students is described. Students activate unlabeled gas discharge tubes and identify the gases by comparing color photographs with spectrometer observations. Includes methods for taking color photographs of spectra. (SK)

An overhead projector, projection screen, and clear tungsten Filament light bulb operated through a dimmer or variac switch are used to demonstrate the fact that black appearance of sunspots is due only to contrast and that sunspots are bright. (SK)

Comments on the significance of a brief 1909 article on physics instruction written by John Dewey for the "Symposium on the Purpose and Organization of Physics Teaching in Secondary Schools." Includes the article itself. (SK)

Summarizes 10 findings of a national survey of the status of introductory astronomy courses for nonscience majors. Findings focus on instructors, course length, laboratory components, laboratory equipment and exercises, texts, enrollment, mathematics prerequisites, and instructors' needs to enhance their teaching capabilities. (SK)

Background information and procedures for demonstrating physical phenomena to groups are described: a red plastic sheet that changes to blue, a group activity for understanding energy transfer, and hanging a spoon from one's nose to illustrate forces involved in static equilibrium. (SK)