Simulations

Sometimes simulations are a good idea to show a concept that can't be seen. But should you use computer simulations or instead is it better to have models and apparatus that the students can touch and play with. The latter although they take time to make seem to work much better

Dragons fire

 One of those fun experiments - producing dragons fire - the boron sparks off an exciting and interesting conversation on flame tests, identification of chemicals and fireworks.

Osmosis

Trying to find an isotonic solution for the chips. I have found that the chip cutter is excellent at producing chips of the same sizes.

Pasco Ultrasonic sensor

I probably use this @pasco ultrasonic sensor more than any other sensor in Physics. Other sensors come out for specific experiments but this one seems to be used in more experiments than any other and being wireless and having a good range  it is invaluable.

The students Listening to themselves

So few students seemed to have listened to their bodies. The heartbeat, the breathing and how it changes as we do exercise and recover afterwards. Getting out the stethoscope is so easy and so rewarding.

Feather and Coin

The coin and feather experiment must rate as one of my favourites, so simple but so effective and with a bit of slight of hand and two identical setups then the magic begins. Why do they fall together in the tube but not outside. Science is Magic.

Making Anhydrous Copper Sulfate

 One trick missed when making anhydrous copper sulfate seems to be repeating the experiment by adding a little water, hydrating the copper sulfate and then repeating the experiment to show how the reaction is repeatedly reversible.