Physics Modules  

Middle School Modules

This is the first module of any science training series.  It will be presented to a mixed audience of middle school and high school teachers. It explores the layout of the guides and emphasizes the philosophies and strategies we employ.  Participants will develop the concept of experimental design by performing selected activities from the middle grades, biology, chemistry and physics courses.

This module will explore activities from the Middle Grades Life and Earth and Middle Grades Chemistry and Physics guides that demonstrate the many ways that students are asked to deal with numbers in the science classroom.  Concepts such as measurement, error, significant digits, and numerical relationships will be discussed and demonstrated.

This module will explore activities from the Middle Grades Life and Earth and Middle Grades Chemistry and Physics guides that emphasize students’ abilities to create and interpret meaning from graphical representations of data. A look at the graphing skills required by AP* students and a discussion of proper graphing techniques will be presented.  Participants will have the opportunity to perform some activities that incorporate graphing skills into the middle school classroom.

Module Four

Rate

This module will explore activities from the Middle Grades Life and Earth and Middle Grades Chemistry and Physics guides that emphasize the variety of instances where rate can be explored in the middle school classroom.  Rate is a common theme among all AP science exams, and its introduction and development in the middle school classroom can help lay a strong conceptual foundation.

Module Five

Patterns

This module will explore activities from the Middle Grades Life and Earth and Middle Grades Chemistry and Physics guides that emphasize patterns in science.  The topics addressed include taxonomy, genetics, periodic trends, and lunar phases.  Participants will perform activities to better visualize and apply these topics in the middle grades classroom.

This module will explore activities from the Middle Grades Chemistry and Physics guide that apply to all middles grades’ classes.   As matter and density are explored, the topics will be related to life and earth science topics, as well as AP biology, chemistry and physics classes.

Module Seven

Evolution and Energy

This module will explore activities from the Middle Grades Life and Earth and Middle Grades Chemistry and Physics guides spending part of the day focused on predator/prey relationships and genetics and the second part of the day focused on work, power, and energy.  Participants will spend the day completing hands on activities that explore real-life topics.

Module Eight

Environmental Human Impact

This module will explore activities from the Middle Grades Life and Earth guide that emphasis the impact we have on our environment.  Current topics such as global warming and pollution will be discussed and studied.  Participants will see how simple changes can affect the impact they have on the world around them.

Module Nine

Models and Reactions

This module will explore activities from life and Earth science as well as chemistry and physics middle grades level topics. The activities include the use of models or address different types of reactions in science. The topics addressed include photosynthesis, the solar system, thermodynamics, and waves. Participants will perform activities to better visualize and apply these topics in the middle grades classroom.

Module Ten

Misconceptions and Magnets

This module will explore activities life and Earth science and middle grades level chemistry and physics topics that are often misunderstood by students. Misconceptions will be addressed in life, Earth, chemistry and physics units. Magnets and magnetic fields will also be addressed with a direct tie to planets.

Module Eleven

Adaptations and Changes

This module will explore activities from life and Earth science as well as chemistry and physics middle grades level topics. Adaptations, black holes, acceleration, and chemical reactions will all be explored. Participants will spend the day completing hands on activities, taking advantage of data collection devices and probeware.

Module Twelve

Effects and Effectiveness

This module will explore activities from life and Earth science as well as chemistry and physics middle grades level topics. Current topics such as the greenhouse effect and global commons will be discussed and studied. Participants will also study heating curves and the effectiveness of levers.

Biology Modules

Module One

Introduction to Laying the Foundation through Experimental Design

This is the first module of any science training series.  It will be presented to a mixed audience of middle school and high school teachers. It explores the layout of the guides and emphasizes the philosophies and strategies we employ.  Participants will develop the concept of experimental design by performing selected activities from the middle grades, biology, chemistry and physics courses.

Module Two

Chemistry of Life and Cells I

Participants will explore introductory activities from the Biology guide that involve the chemistry of life. Over the course of the training sequence, these topics will be revisited and explored in depth each year.  This module will investigate the four major classes of biomolecules along with enzyme structure and function.  An introduction to cellular structure and surface area-to-volume relationships will also be explored and discussed.

Module Three

DNA, Genetics, and Animals I

Participants will explore introductory activities from units on DNA, Mendelian genetics and animal systems.  Over the course of the training sequence, these topics will be revisited and explored in depth each year. This first group of activities will explore Mendelian inheritance principles in maize, extract DNA from plants, and use graphing calculators to simulate Mendelian inheritance patterns.  An activity comparing endotherms and ectotherms will emphasize the importance of incorporating computational activities in the biology classroom.

Module Four

Plants, Ecology, and Evolution I

Participants will explore introductory activities from units on plants, ecology and evolution.  Over the course of the training sequence, these topics will be revisited and further developed.  This first group of activities will compare monocots and dicots with respect to stem and stomate structure and function, simulate natural selection, and identify the photosynthetic component of plants

Module Five

Measurement and Statistics

Participants will discuss and develop student skills related to measurements and statistics in the biology classroom.   Lessons will be explored that incorporate microscopes and graphing calculators.  Data analysis and its inclusion in laboratory reports will also be addressed.

Module Six

Chemistry of Life and Cells II

Participants will investigate the laws of thermodynamics and kinetics as they relate to the biology classrooms.  In addition to traditional wet labs, LTF lessons will incorporate probeware and modeling techniques as they explore enzyme catalysis and membrane structure.

Module Seven

Cellular Processes and Animal Adaptations

In this second look at DNA, Genetics and animals participants will explore lessons related to endotherms and ectotherms and other animal adaptations.  Participants will perform an introductory gel electrophoresis and discuss the implications of DNA fingerprinting.

Module Eight

Plants, Ecology, and Evolution II

The plant lessons for this module will investigate plant transpiration and pigment chromatography.  Participants will also discuss and explore the response and interactions of organisms with their environment as well as population studies.

Module Nine

Mitosis, Passive Transport, and Genetics

Participants will discuss and develop student skills related to mitosis and karyotypes using manipulatives. Passive transport will be explored in two labs using microscopes and graphing calculators.

Module Ten

Bacteria, Viruses, and Paramecia

A discussion will be conducted over common misconceptions in the Biology classroom. Participants will also investigate bacterial transformation, viral transmission, and the trp operon using modeling strategies. Participants will use microscopes to observe a Paramecium feeding process in a traditional wet lab.

Module Eleven

Plants, Ecology, and Evolution III

In this look at plants, ecology and evolution, participants will explore lessons related to adaptations and alternation of generations in plants. Participants will demonstrate evolution in the animal kingdom with an in-depth look at the different forms of body cavities and symmetries.

Module Twelve

Enzymes and Body Systems

Participants will explore strategies for teaching about enzymes and conduct a lab designed to illustrate enzyme-substrate specificity using technology. The body system activities include the endocrine system, respiratory system and the excretory system.

Chemistry Modules

Module One

Introduction to Laying the Foundation through Experimental Design

This is the first module of any science training series.  It will be presented to a mixed audience of middle school and high school teachers. It explores the layout of the guides and emphasizes the philosophies and strategies we employ.  Participants will develop the concept of experimental design by performing selected activities from the middle grades, biology, chemistry and physics courses.

Module Two

Graphing Calculators and Data Collection Devices

Participants will explore the use of TI graphing calculators and data collection devices in the chemistry classroom.   A step-by-step guide to using the calculator and data collection device will be examined and practice activities will be performed.

Module Three

Atomic Structure

Participants will explore lessons from the LTF Chemistry guide that develop the concepts of matter and atomic structure.  The discussion portion of the day will develop student friendly methods for teaching electron configurations, orbital notation and quantum numbers.  Participants will perform two simple activities that integrate algebra and graphing skills into this unit of study.

Module Four

Bonding and Nomenclature

Participants will explore lessons from the Chemistry guide that focus on bonding and nomenclature topics.  The discussion portion of the day will address teaching students to draw Lewis structures, determine molecular geometries, and write correct chemical formulas.  Two activities will be performed that investigate the importance of intermolecular forces and the geometry of molecules.

Module Five

Mathematics and the Periodic Table

Participants will discuss mathematical problem solving strategies in chemistry and investigate relationships between elements on the periodic table.  Both traditional wet and dry labs will be explored with the intention of solidifying student understanding of periodic trends and their role in chemical behavior. An examination of AP* style questions and common student misconceptions will further develop the strategies that can be implemented to facilitate student success.

Module Six

Intermolecular Forces and  Condensed States of Matter

Participants will use a variety of techniques to explore intermolecular forces and the solid and liquid states.  Computer simulations, probeware, and traditional lab activities will all be utilized.  A discussion of common student misconceptions and strategies to overcome those obstacles will also be developed.  Examining Pre-AP assessments will serve to assist participants in better preparing their students for the expectations of AP science.

Module Seven

Thermodynamics

Participants will review concepts in thermodynamics and apply them to problem solving and laboratory experiments.  Investigations using probeware and traditional laboratory equipment will be explored with emphasis on developing the conceptual framework necessary for successful problem solving.

Module Eight

Assessment and Kinetics

Participants will spend time examining specific assessment strategies that can be implemented in the Pre-AP classroom to prepare students for AP exams.  Reading of actual student samples from the 2008 LTF Chemistry End Of Course exam will help participants identify student misconceptions and emphasize the finer points of assessment development.  In addition to developing participants’ assessment skills, instruction in chemical kinetics and a traditional clock reaction experiment will also be included.

Module Nine

Reactions and Equations

Participants will discuss types of reactions and the equations that accompany them. Both traditional wet and dry labs will be explored with the intention of solidifying student understanding of chemical reactions. An examination of AP* style net ionic questions and common student misconceptions will further develop the strategies that can be implemented to facilitate student success.

Module Ten

Solutions

Participants will use a variety of techniques to explore the properties and nature of solutions. Multiple wet labs will be performed and colorimeters and data collection devices will be used to analyze solutions. A discussion of common student misconceptions and strategies to overcome those obstacles will also be developed. Examining assessments will serve to assist participants in better preparing their students for the expectations of AP* science.

Module Eleven

Equilibrium

Participants will review concepts in equilibrium and apply them to problem solving and laboratory experiments. Investigations using probeware and traditional laboratory equipment will be explored with emphasis on developing the conceptual framework necessary for successful problem solving.

Module Twelve

Gases and Wrap Up

Participants will explore lessons and activities relating to gas laws in the chemistry class. In addition, time will be spent analyzing and evaluating the components of a rigorous chemistry lesson and participants will have the opportunity to apply those components to an activity that they can take back to their classroom.

Physics Modules

Module One

Introduction to Laying the Foundation through Experimental Design

This is the first module of any science training series.  It will be presented to a mixed audience of middle school and high school teachers. It explores the layout of the guides and emphasizes the philosophies and strategies we employ.  Participants will develop the concept of experimental design by performing selected activities from the middle grades, biology, chemistry and physics courses.

Module Two

What is Pre-AP Physics and Kinematics I?

Participants will explore physics lessons that focus on constant and changing motion.  Emphasis will also be placed on developing a curriculum system in order to accomplish the goals for teaching a rigrious Physics course.  Example calendars, scopes and sequences and objectives will be discussed.  Problem solving will be demonstrated and practiced.  Probes and data collection devices will be used to collect and analyze data.

Module Three

Developing Skills and Mechanical Waves

Participants will explore student lessons that focus on both longitudinal and transverse wave motion.  Participants will investigate waves in a string, a spring and ripple tank as well as determine the speed of sound in air.  This session will also emphasize graphing calculators, graphing skills, problem solving skills and ways to administer and evaluate labs.

Module Four

Using the Tools—Electricity and Magnetism I

Participants will explore student lessons that introduce electrostatics and electric circuits.  Participants will map an electric field and examine equipotential and electric field lines as well as build and investigate various types of circuits involving light bulbs and resistors in both series and parallel circuits.  Methods for resolving circuits and for the formulation of Ohm's Law will be discussed and practiced.  Emphasis will also be placed on data collection and display devices.

Module Five

Kinematics-2 Dimensional Motion-Impulse and Momentum

Participants will investigate kinematics, 2 dimensional motion, momentum and impulse. Experiments exploring acceleration in one and two dimensions will be performed emphasize graphing and vector activities to enhance understanding and development of concepts.  Exercises which strengthen problem solving and analysis of motion will be examined and practiced.  Additional problem solving activities and assessments will be provided.

Module Six

Dynamics-Work, Power and Energy

Participants will explore dynamics, Newton’s laws, free body diagrams, work, power and energy.  Teachers will perform experiments using carts and ramps and use technology to investigate Newton’s 2nd Law and the effects of friction.  A roller coaster lab will be used to develop concepts of work, power and energy.  The day will include practice with free body diagrams and their importance in problem solving.

Module Seven

Waves and Sound-Light and Optics

Participants will examine the concepts of waves, sound, light and optics.  Labs will be performed to determine the speed of sound in the laboratory and to investigate wave properties of reflection, refraction and diffraction of waves and light.  These will involve optics experiments using lenses, mirrors and water.  Practice with ray diagrams and computer simulations for lenses and mirrors will be included in the day’s activities.  Example homework activities will be provided as well as a discussion of assessments.

Participants will investigate electricity, magnetism and modern topics.  Labs will include building a capacitor and measuring its capacitance, constructing a circuit involving resistors and capacitors, and the effects of current on magnetic fields.  Exercises on right hand rules and a discussion of magnetic fields and their effect on moving charges will be included.  Example homework activities will be provided as well as a discussion of assessment.

Module Nine

Relationships

Participants will discuss methods for data analysis and practice determining relationships from data. Labs will be included which not only develop skills and concepts germane to Pre AP Physics, but will also increase analysis of data strategies which can be implemented to facilitate student success. Further study of kinematics, two dimensional motion, dynamics and the concept of physical and mathematical constants will be included in the laboratory activities.

Module Ten

Gathering and manipulation Data

Participants will engage in a discussion of misconceptions and discrepant events which impede student’s ability to understand physics concepts. Teachers will investigate aspects of work, power and energy, impulse and momentum through laboratory exercises and discussions. Included will be further emphasis on data analysis and the use of curve fitting, data smoothing and additional techniques.

Module Eleven

Data Analysis

Participants will continue the theme of gathering and analyzing data using technology and traditional methods. Ways to ensure that all students are given instruction in terms of their needs and individual requirements will be discussed along with ways to build physics and other science programs to include a larger and more diverse group of students. Lab activities will include an emphasis on thermodynamics and fluids.

Module Twelve

Extending Physics to Modern Topics

Participants will explore lessons and activities relating to electricity and magnetism such as Faraday and Coulomb’s Laws. Also, concepts in modern and particle physics will be discussed and investigated in laboratory experiences. In addition, time will be spent analyzing and evaluating the components of a rigorous Pre AP Physic lesson or lab activity and participants will have the opportunity to apply those components to an activity that they can take back to their classroom.