The National Curriculum for 14-16 year old students in England contains a mandatory element called "How science works". Included in this material is interpretation of data, collecting data from primary sources, using ICT tools, and developing an argument and drawing conclusions. What follows is an activity, based on magnetic braking,…

Explains the typical design, operation, and calibration of a traditional psychrometer. Presents the method utilized for this class project with design considerations, calibration techniques, remote data sensing schematic, and specifics of the implementation process. (JJK)

Describes a simple circuit based on an inexpensive quad operational amplifier that permits a direct-reading temperature instrument to be constructed using silicon diodes. Encourages the use of this equipment in introductory thermal experiments. (DDR)

Reviews a simple theory that describes the bounce of an air-filled ball and predicts that the contact time should be independent of the speed of impact. Presents experimental results that disagree with the theory and an alternative model that agrees with experimental results. (DDR)

Presents examples of experiments designed for high school students with the help of a microcomputer-based laboratory called Explorer. Argues that these tools enable students to investigate many principles of physics that were not feasible in the past. (DDR)