Idea Bank: Measuring the Speed of Sound

Journal Article | June 2008

The following physics lab activities are new versions of old experiments for measuring the speed of sound—what makes them new is their use of electronic interfacing, which can be exciting for students. Each activity…

Making and Measuring a Model of a Salt Marsh

Journal Article | November 2007

Students are often confused by the difference between the terms accuracy and precision. In the following activities, students explore the definitions of accuracy and precision while learning about salt march ecology and…

Measuring Student Understanding in a Portfolio-Based Course

Journal Article | August 2012

In this study, the authors examined student portfolio-based assessment that has been implemented in an upper-level biology course. The two sections of the portfolios analyzed were students' written reflections and…

Disequilibrium: Measuring Our Rising Sea Levels

Journal Article | September 2017

This column shows how to use discrepant events to confront misconceptions. Does the melting Antarctica ice cause sea levels to rise more than melting Arctic ice? This month’s discrepant event answers this question.

Ramps, Balls, and Measuring Distance—For All

Journal Article | December 2017

Ensuring meaningful access to science curriculum for students with physical disabilities

Science 102: This Month's Task: Measuring Up

Journal Article | January 2016

Exercises to challenge content knowledge. This month's task involves an activity using a meterstick.