🚀 go-pugleaf

I teach four classes of physics.  Two sections are sort of honors and
utilize trig/precalc and the other two sections are project based and
utilize alg.  for the most part.  With the project based class I use
Hewitt's conceptual physics text and Jennifer H ickman's Problem-solving
workbook (which contains excellent problems).

Both classes are taught using a large number of open-ended or exploration
labs -- each concept starts with this approach.  After gathering data during
these explorations the kids circle in the classroom and discuss their
conclusions.  I basically sit the re and let them discover the physic by
themselves (of course, at times I have to ask leading questions).  Towards
the end of the year it's very rewarding when they even forget I'm present
and basically run the clahid coverage of material.  However, it has led to a
rapid decrease in their physics misconceptions since the students must
always support their beliefs to their peers and in their journals (which is
the main grading tool th at I use).  We usually cover all of mechanics
including some rotational and electrostatics.


Most of the activities I start with are PRISM explorations or similar ones
that my husband, Dan, and I have written over the years.

Kathy Malone;
Shady Side Academy