Multiple initiatives contend that all students should master computational thinking, including the "Next Generation Science Standards, the K-12 Framework for Computational Thinking," and Code.org. In turn, many physics teachers have begun to explore a variety of approaches to integrating computational modeling through programming. These…

Idealized models are often used in introductory physics courses. For one, such models involve simple mathematics, which is a definite plus since complex mathematical manipulations quickly become an obstacle rather than a tool for a beginner. Idealized models facilitate a student's understanding and grasp of a given physical phenomenon, yet they…

Applications of this model to problems associated with basic phenomena in radioactivity, heat transfer, neutron chain reactions, RC circuits and vacuum pumping are presented. Example computations for each situation are included. (CW)

A model of the phenomenon of the desert mirage is presented using Snell's Law and simple programing techniques. Optical trajectories predicted by the model are illustrated. (CW)