An activity in which students use a rubber band and flexible straws to pull a dynamics cart so that the cart has a consistent angle and, therefore, a consistent horizontal component of force is described. A copy of the handout for the activity is included. (KR)

Argues that the only reason to ask students to plot graphs manually should be to have them learn the skill of plotting graphs manually. For data-analysis purposes, the use of computer-generated graphs has several advantages and few disadvantages over manual plotting. (Author/WRM)

Discusses the uses of thermistors in teaching electronics and semiconductors. Describes how to experimentally measure and graph the characteristics of a thermistor. Suggests one possible approach to understand the shapes of the characteristics. (CW)

Plotting a polynomial over the range of real numbers when its derivative contains complex roots is discussed. The polynomials are graphed by calculating the minimums, maximums, and zeros of the function. (MNS)

Describes a continuous sequence of development of arithmetical and ratio reasoning capacity which very few students now attain in introductory science courses. Sequence progresses from verbal interpretation of ratio of two numbers, to arithmetical reasoning involving division, coupling arithmetical reasoning to graphical representation, and to…

This paper investigates one high school student's use of gestures in an interview context in which he worked on the problem of understanding graphical representations of motion. The goal of the investigation was to contribute a detailed analysis of the process of learning as it occurred over a short time period in order to contribute to the…

Describes the development and analysis of the Test of Understanding Graphs in Kinematics (TUG-K) and reports the results of a study aimed at uncovering student problems with interpreting kinematics graphs. Proposes a model for creating multiple choice tests which can be used as diagnostic tools. Contains 34 references. (DDR)

Presents a lesson involving the measurement of wood beams and the prediction and testing of their stress limits. Provides an example of a problem with multiple solutions, each with different consequences. (KHR)

Presents two real world applications that use derivatives and are related to computing the distance required to stop an airplane. Examines the curve-fitting techniques used to develop an equation for braking force and develops equations for the deceleration and speed. (DDR)

Presents four examples of physics problems that can be solved with a graphing calculator. Problems included deal with motion, harmonic oscillations, sound waves, and blackbody radiation. (JRH)

A quantitative application of magnetic braking performed with an air track is described. The experimental measurement of the position of the glider as a function of time is calculated. (KR)

Presents a pre-lab exercise, an experimental setup, and discussion of computer-generated graphs that can be used to study the motion and energy of a bouncing ball. (WRM)

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of formative assessment as a teaching strategy through an internet-mediated assessment portal (ImAP) on preservice elementary student understanding of kinematics graphs as opposed to traditional lecturing. A quasi-experimental design was used for this purpose. Findings revealed that…

Describes the study of a physics teacher whose teaching changed as his beliefs about mathematics changed. Following a week-long institute on using graphing calculators, the teacher became an advocate of calculator use and his algebraic thinking progressed as he realized the importance of functions. (DDR)

Described is a procedure for studying the trajectories of projectiles using ball bearings and aluminum foil. Trajectories were measured with and without the effects of air resistance. Multiflash photography was used to determine the flight paths of all objects. (KR)