A level physics

[mr hughes]

I am considering offering GCE Physics as a new A level option in September 2008. Whilst the subject matter is relatively OK, I am a bit confused as to what laboratory equipment and apparatus should be purchased; this is obviously a crucial matter.
I do not to commit too much money but would need at least the bare minimum.
Any help would be much appreciated.

[Chef Dave]

I am not sure I understand your request. It is my understanding that instruction of level A GCSE Physics requires use of standard laboratory equipment.

Without being a physics teacher, the only alternative I can imagine would be the use of virtual experiments using a computer. Europress publishes GCSE physics software with the following description:

"You can perform experiments in the laboratory using virtual equipment, then study results and theories presented on-screen through high quality graphics and animations. Learning is further reinforced through questioning and a series of interactive exercises."

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Europress-5060035740314-GCSE-Physics/dp/B000062TEX

Here are some additional links that might be useful:

GCSE.com
http://www.gcse.com/physics.htm

BCSE Bitesize Physics
http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/physics/

OCR Recognizing Achievement: A Level GCE - Specification and Specification Assessment Materials
http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as_alevelgce/physics_a/

[Kent Purser]

Hello

I have been teaching at Granite Hills High School in Apple Valley in the High Desert in So Cal for the past nine years. I have attempted to use the computer interfaces anf Pasco equipment, but have found them too labor intensive. I'd like to clear this stuff out of my storage! I have both the 500 and 750 interfaces, I think 6 of each. I have voltage, motion, accl, force sensors among others. They are dated 1999. If someone out there is using these relics and is wondering how to get ahold of more, I'll look into seeing if the school district will allow me to give them away. But no hastles! I'm not mailing them, I'm not meeting somewhere. If you want them, once they're okayed, you come get em!

[stuffagain]

i just presented a Newton 2nd Law lab. The lab involves pushing and pulling a cart along a track by a force sensor. The cart has an accelerometer mounted. When the time samples of force and accleration are plotted the regression slope approximates the cart mass. Two questions: (1) Most students obtained a result where the regression slope underestimated mass; by 5% - 15%. Why is the bias always in that direction? (2) Similarly, the intercept was always slightly negative. Agains why the bias?