Suggestions for writing computer programs for instructional purposes are provided. Program listing for displaying a bar graph on a TRS-80 computer and listings for two subroutines (advancing frame and entering name on Apple computer) are included. (JN)

Provides directions for constructing graphical alignment charts to solve a variety of mathematical physics problems. (MLH)

Describes studies designed to examine the instrumentation used to assess both graphing abilities and the impact of microcomputer-based laboratories (MBL) on students' graphing abilities. Results suggest that numerous disparities between the results of multiple-choice and free response instruments. The analysis also revealed that the impact of MBL…

It is shown that the well-known Lorentz formula for time dilation can be derived from a distance-time graph plotted for a spaceship communicating with Earth.

Expert/novice studies of conceptually rich problem solving have demonstrated a relationship between the correctness of a solution and the extent and organization of the solver's conceptual knowledge. This study examines meaningful problem solving and the relationship between the correctness of a solution and the extent of the solver's scientific…

This monograph is a test of graphing and graph interpretation skills which assesses performance on all the skills of graphing which are contained in the AAAS program, Science - A Process Approach. The testing includes construction of bar graphs, interpreting information on graphs, the use of the Cartesian coordinate system, making predictions from…

Uses graphs to involve students in inquiry-based population investigations on the Wisconsin gray wolf. Requires students to predict future changes in the wolf population, carrying capacity, and deer population. (YDS)

Described is how the crumpling of paper balls exhibits the concept of a topological dimension similar to fractals. The mass of the crumpled paper ball is found to be proportional to its diameter raised to a nonintegral power. (KR)

An exercise which relates particle scattering and the calculation of cross-sections to answer the following question--"Do you get wetter by walking or running through the rain?"--is described. The calculations used to answer the question are provided. (KR)

Presents the results of a series of studies on the production, transformation, and interpretation of graphical representations from grade 8 to professional scientific practice in formal testing situations (inside) and in the course of field/laboratory work (outside). (Author/CCM)

Outlines the findings of the Science Teacher Training in an Information Society (STTIS) project concerned with describing the possible difficulties pupils have when reading science textbook pictures on energy. Concludes that reading science textbook pictures is not trivial for pupils and that teachers need to spend time and effort talking through…

Focuses on images of energy that may help to construct key scientific concepts. Analyzes interpretations given by students of documents containing images evoking ideas that are seldom visually explained within a theoretical semiotic frame. Confirms the utility of this frame and suggests some abilities needed for students to correctly interpret…

This study uses the context of the weather to explore the development of students' intuitive ideas of variation from pre-Grade 1 to Grade 9. Three aspects of understanding these intuitions associated with variation are explored in individual videotaped interviews with 73 students: explanations, suggestions of data, and graphing. The development of…