Breakout  Sessions

Abstract

To strengthen digital literacy, we introduced Microsoft Excel as a powerful tool for modelling complex physical systems such as a ball falling with air resistance or simple harmonic motion that would normally require solving 1st or 2nd-order differential equations. Such systems can be solved simply using kinematics equations with iterative modelling.

We also created practical lessons using PhyPhox and IOLab to show students that they could perform physics experiments by collecting data using sensors that were available in their smartphones which augmented their learning. Through these experiments, students explored the motion of lifts and trains, forces such as friction, drag and upthrust and investigated collision of bodies. In the process, students also discovered the limitations of these sensors and how to address them. 

From the first run of such practicals, we identified possible challenges or pitfalls that we may face in conducting the lessons and using such devices for experiments, which would help us improve our lessons in future.

Abstract

What defines an ideal gas?  From the underpinnings of thermodynamics, quantum and classical (statistical) mechanics, we can unravel the origins of random motion and pressure within an ideal gas.  The seemingly straightforward inquiries lead to intriguing answers that might challenge and reshape our current comprehension.  In this presentation, I will delve into these responses, exploring their potential impact on the way we approach teaching Thermal Physics in H2 Physics.

Abstract

As physics teachers, our mission is to inspire curiosity and instill a deep understanding of the fundamental principles of the physical world in our students. To that end, we are excited to share a lesson plan that offers an engaging approach to investigating and modeling the relationship between centripetal acceleration and angular velocity in circular motion.

Our lesson plan, in collaboration with CPDD, incorporates a combination of hands-on experimentation, technology, and data analysis to foster a deep comprehension of circular motion. By utilizing readily available tools like a salad spinner, the Phyphox app, and Microsoft Excel, we could provide our students with a practical and interactive experience that brings theoretical concepts to life.

This presentation will guide you through the essential components of the lesson plan, which we did for our JC1 physics cohort in 2023, exploring how students can manipulate the angular velocity of a spinning object using a salad spinner, record data with the Phyphox app, and subsequently analyze their findings in Microsoft Excel. Through this process, students can directly observe and quantify the effects of varying angular velocity on centripetal acceleration.

Abstract

Thermal physics is one of the most conceptually challenging sections of the H2 Physics syllabus. It is highly abstract and very mathematical, with many formulae that apply in certain situations but not others, so students often confuse them or don't understand the meaning of these formulae. Game-Based Learning offers an all-in-one package to address these issues by giving an authentic context, making concepts concrete and making the connections explicit, and allowing students to explore and construct their understanding in an environment where they feel safe and excited. 

In this workshop, I share about a board game called “Steam Engines” that I created for a Game-Based Learning lesson on the First Law of Thermodynamics and the four gas processes. We will play the game for a while, and then I will explain the pedagogical decisions made through the design process, as well as how subsequent tutorial lessons tied in with it. We will also explore how existing games can be quickly modified to suit GBL lessons, or created from scratch.

Abstract

With the increasing importance of STEM education and in alignment with the upcoming new H2 Physics syllabus, it is timely to enable students to understand the connections between the science curriculum and the real-world contexts from an engineer’s perspective. By empowering students to apply various modes of representations and enhance their digital literacy through the use of wireless ICT tool “IOLab data acquisition device and software” and Microsoft Excel for data collection and analysis, this STEM experience will make their learning more meaningful and purposeful through an inquiry-based approach. It will foster a deeper interest and motivation in their pursuit of excellence in science. 

This project enables students to apply their prior knowledge in solving real-world engineering problems, specifically addressing car safety design challenges. With the use of IOlab, they will investigate the design considerations of the crumple zone of a car through a 4-stage STEM engineering design process titled “S-E-E-D”:

Stage 1: Seek Knowledge and Acquire Skills

Stage 2: Experiment

Stage 3: Exchange of insights among peers

Stage 4: Demonstrate learning through prototyping

Through this workshop, we aim to form a Networked Learning Community (NLC) with other schools to jointly create more IOLab-based resources for T&L.