Discusses electric and magnetic forces between parallel-wire conductors and derives, in a simple fashion, order of magnitude estimates of the ratio of the likely electrostatic and electromagnetic forces for a simple parallel-wire balance. (Author/HM)

Presents an exact solution to the nonlinear Faraday's law problem of a rod sliding on frictionless rails with resistance. Compares the results with perturbation calculations based on the methods of Poisson and Pincare and of Kryloff and Bogoliuboff. (Author/GA)

A paramagnetic substance is attracted by a magnetic field with a force proportional to its magnetic susceptibility which is related to the number of unpaired electrons in the atoms. Data are used to establish oxidation states and bonding properties. Describes a simple setup to demonstrate the paramagnetism of common inorganic compounds. (DKM)

The Thomas J. Pappas Regional Education Center in Phoenix, Arizona, is a magnet school for homeless students from unorganized territories, military installations, Indian reservations, and national forest lands. This "accommodation" school, supported by federal grants, in-kind business donations, and committed volunteer mentors from the…

A number of research studies document the effectiveness of magnet schools--both in breaking down racial isolation and in providing high-quality education programs. However, according to Kimberly West, writing in the "Yale Law Journal,""many magnet schools are rife with racially segregated classrooms." (MLF)

Notes that magnet schools were established to promote racial diversity, improve scholastic standards, and provide a range of programs to satisfy individual talents and interests. Suggests the need for a better understanding of new policies on race and magnet schools; the social and political context of choice; and the consequences of reform…

The "attractor magnet" curricula in the Interdisciplinary Program at Suncoast Community High School (Florida) include drafting, technology, engineering technology, and communications technology. As an alternative to comprehensive high schools, it provides challenging college-prep programs to a diverse population. (JOW)

Discusses when alternating and magnetic fields are independent. Provides examples of experiments involving mains hum and the detection of induced signals. Describes electric circuits and oscilloscope displays. (Author/YP)

School choice can revitalize school programs by giving teachers the freedom to be creative and by breaking down the barriers of segregation. However, choice can create new kinds of inequalities and can lull people into believing educational problems are solved. Cites successful school choice plans. (MLF)

David Bilingual Learning Center (Tucson, AZ) blends academic and cultural learning into an enriching experience through an elementary magnet program which teaches language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science in students' native languages of either English or Spanish and then incorporates the second language through a "Language of the…

Discusses the properties of neodymium magnets and magnets in general and how magnets can be used to teach students important scientific principles, such as attraction, repulsion, and polarity; the role of magnetic forces in electronic communications and computers; the magnetic properties of the earth and compasses; and the relationship between…

Describes the reasoning behind and services provided at the Thomas J. Pappas regional education center in Phoenix, Arizona, a magnet school for homeless students from all over the Phoenix area. Notes that the center provides some stability and extensive support to students. (SR)

At a Kansas City (Missouri) elementary school, teachers expect students to spend half their learning time on a computer. The racially mixed school has one computer for every two students, two computer labs, and work stations from which teachers can monitor students' progress and generate lessons using software like "Icon Arthur" and…

Describes a fast and simple method for measuring the magnetic force acting on a current-carrying conductor using a digital balance. Discusses the influence of current intensity and wire length on the magnetic force on the conductor. (JRH)

Describes a sequence of activities which explore the nature of magnetism. Presents background information and details for classroom instruction for the following activities: plotting two-dimensional magnetic fields, making the reed switch and the reed relay, building a ribbon and moving coil loudspeaker, and investigations of a toy commutatorless…