A direct simple method for measuring the specific gravity of air is described. The method is based on a new idea for measuring the pressure of air, compressed into a plastic bottle by means of a common bicycle pump. […]
A successful qualitative problem-solving strategy in mechanics that promotes a better understanding of basic physics concepts and of everyday phenomena is described. The strategy is suitable for 9th grade pupils and over. […]
Numbers are often viewed as a matter for end-of-chapter problems. Actually numerical estimates of physical quantities are of utmost importance: significant examples of them should always accompany the discussion of physical laws. When is the measure of a physical quantity merely conventional, […]
The author criticises the way teachers typically construct and employ tasks in physics instruction. Germany teachers prefer tasks that only have one correct solutions. In classroom discussions the teacher narrowly guides his o her students towards this specific answer. […]