Curated OER
Seeing Interference Fringes with a Telescope
Learners construct an interferometer using a simple telescope. In this physics instructional activity, students explain how light waves create the fringe patterns. They observe patterns made by different objects in the sky and compare them.
Curated OER
Polarization
Eighth graders study the basic facts of polarization. In this light waves lesson students demonstrate some activities illustrating interference patterns.
Curated OER
Frozen Film
Students discover how light reflects off surfaces. In this hands-on demonstration, students examine how variations in color are produced by light interference.
National Nanotechnology Infrastructure Network
Powers of Ten with the Blue Morpho Butterfly
Explore the powers of ten while examining a Blue Morpho butterfly wing. Learners discover there is a lot more than meets the eye when one looks close enough.
Curated OER
Gumdrop Crystal Models
A great way to learn about molecular structures is to make a model. Gumdrops and toothpicks are used to construct crystal models. The models are based on theories of crystal shapes that occur because of positive and or negatively charged...
Curated OER
What Role Does Light Play Within the Vision Process?
Students are introduced to the relationship between light and vision. In groups, they participate in experiments to discover how different wavelengths are divided in the visible spectrum. They record their answers and discuss their...
Curated OER
Diffraction of Laser Light, Polarization and Color Filters
Students investigate light behavior by conducting a series of experiments. In this physics lesson, students calculate the wavelength of the light source using an equation. They determine what color is produced when light of different...
Curated OER
The Energy of Waves
In this science activity, middle schoolers examine the topic in order to solidify knowledge covered in the curriculum using puzzles and creative games.
Curated OER
Phase Change
Learners compare the freezing temperature of two substances by conducting an experiment to freeze liquid ice cream. They vary the amount of salt used in the ice cubes during the freezing procedure to determine the change in the...
Curated OER
Uncovering a Signal
Students examine information EEG impulse control. They observe representations of EEG signals. Students use inquiry skills to interpret and analyze the waveforms. They explore how confusion can send control impulses to the wrong...