Resources for the Physics Classroom

The Reformed Physics Classroom

  • Equipping the Inquiry Classroom
    What makes an inquiry class work? In part, it is the physical design of your classroom - both seating and equipment. Good design will encourage the attitudes and skills that inquiry thrives on. From the OAPT Newsletter, April 2012.
  • Equipping the Inquiry Classroom - Files
    A collection of files to support the inquiry classroom: table numbers, "clicker" letters, group evaluations
  • Article: Making Groups Work
    How do we train students how to work well in groups? Most of us teachers have very little training ourselves. and don't have the tools or techniques to help students overcome their often justified resistance to regular group work. This article is from the November issue of the OAPT newsletter offers some strategies and materials.

Testamonial: What is it like to change?

Kelly Meisner, Bluevale Collegiate, Waterloo, Ontario

Feb. 8, 2012: Kelly attends my presentation Electricity by Inquiry.

Feb. 11: "Thank you for hosting such an informative and helpful session. I'm so glad I went! ... I've been playing with inquiry for a long time and even though I am a bit afraid, I'm ready to step out of my comfort zone. I've got 2 small classes (21 and 23) of 3U this semester and they are on board as well (and excited that a teacher would make a drastic change for their benefit). ... So far, so good though! I haven't felt this excited or energized about a course in a REALLY long time!"

Feb. 15: "Things are going pretty smoothly so far!! ... I think the students are getting way more out of this. I can't believe how much more engaged they are, the lovely "physics" language they are using on a regular basis ( I rarely heard this before), and the lack of cell phone/texting presence. It's AWESOME!"

Mar. 1: "We are almost done! Only 3 lessons left and I'm totally converted. I don't think I can go back – I'm having WAY too much fun. I feel like this experience has really enhanced my understanding. I can explain things better to students. I'm getting to know them better as people. The students get better feedback b/c they get one-on-one time with me that they wouldn't normally get. It's so, so cool! ... You make me look like a rockstar! My science colleagues are even starting to ask what I'm doing and if I think the can implement the same thing in their bio and chem classes. Just look at what you've started! Definitely, we are prepared to go full inquiry here at bluevale in physics next year – both 3U and 4U. woo hoo!"

April 17: "Things are still going really well for us. My student teacher is amazed and we're really pleased with the results. She told me the other day that she really feels there is no other way to learn this stuff! It's awesome."

Our Concept Survey Results

Gr. 11 Physics (SPH3U)

  • Check back for regular updates each semester! I am always revising the materials.
  • New! PER Gr. 11 Physics Student Workbook (January 2012)
    A complete, day-by-day, set of lesson plans and activities for the Gr. 11 physics course that I have designed to make the most use of the developments of Physics Education Research. Original Word documents available upon request.
  • Sound and Waves Materials
    Assorted files to support the sound and waves unit.
  • Gr. 11 Student Work
    Sample student work from select activites from the Gr.11 course.

Gr. 12 Physics (SPH4U)