Changing Misconceptions in Physics and Physical Science Students Presented by: Catherine Charnawskas and Margaret Milligan

Quiz Website: Quiz helps to diagnose common misconceptions that science students have. Full quiz covers: physical science/physics, chemistry, biology, and astronomy.

Topics we will cover today Newton’s Laws Gravity Electricity and Circuits Light Density and Buoyancy

Newton’s Three Laws Newton’s First Law An object in motion will remain in motion, an object at rest will remain at rest, unless acted upon by an outside force. Newton’s Second Law Force = mass * acceleration Newton’s Third Law For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.

Newton’s Demos and Lab Question: Can one person “out pull” another person? Two volunteers Two spring scales Hypothesis? Results? Explanation?

Newton’s Demo and Lab Question: Can I push you away? Two Volunteers Two chairs with wheels (skateboards or roller skates also work) Hypothesis? Results? Explanation?

The Effects of Gravity Question: What happens if a feather and hammer are dropped at the same time (in the absence of air resistance)? Video Clip: Astronauts having fun!Video Clip Hypothesis? Results? Explanation?

Newton’s Demo and Lab Question: Can you remove the paper towel without moving the beaker? Volunteer Paper Towel (brown school paper towel works best) Stack of Beakers Hypothesis? Results? Explanation?

Electricity and Circuits Question: How many ways can you light the bulb? Light bulb and holder Alligator clips and wires Batteries and battery packs Hypothesis? Results? Explanation?

Electricity and Circuits Question: Can we make a human circuit? Human volunteers! Hypothesis? Results? Explanation?

Density Question: Is your soda dense? Can of regular and diet soda Tank of water Hypothesis? Results? Explanation?

Wrap-up All the handouts and PowerPoint can be found at