Links for Physics Teachers
Physics Outreach Programs at Illinois
The Physics Van
A traveling road show, organized by our undergraduates, brings the thrill of scientific discovery to elementary and middle school children and their teachers throughout Illinois. Experience the excitement of a van show online, or request a Van presentation for your school.
Saturday Physics Honors Program
Talks on modern aspects of the physical sciences presented by world-leading researchers in a relaxed, interactive setting on Saturday mornings during the fall semester. The series, which is designed for high school students, is open to all members of the general public. Participants receive certificates of attendance.
Saturday Astrophysics Honors Program
The Saturday Astrophysics Honors Program is a series of lectures on astrophysics and astronomy that is held on Saturday mornings during the spring semester. Although designed for high-school students, the program is open to the general public (including teachers, parents, and siblings) so students can participate as a class, individually, or with their families. Prior knowledge of physics, astronomy, or computing is not necessary.
Whys Guy
The Whys Guy (Physics' own Professor Mats Selen) can be seen live on WCIA's Morning Show every Wednesday. Exciting visual demonstrations explain basic science concepts—why curve balls curve, why objects float or sink, why dust explodes... In fact, Mats specializes in why lots of things explode.
Ask THE Van
Submit your question online for an age-appropriate answer by our talented undergraduates, or check out some of the more than 2300 questions we've answered so far.
Baseball Physics
Professor Al Nathan has created a great website devoted to the physics of America's greatest game.
Lecture Demonstration Database
The Department of Physics has in stock thousands of physics demonstrations. Browse or search.
Physics Education Research at Illinois
The Physics Education Research Group conducts ongoing research in how students learn physics. You can review our completed and ongoing research projects, register to use the course materials that have revolutionized the way introductory physics is taught at the University of Illinois, or practice on our "interactive examples."
Other Great Resources
Physics Central, an award-winning site sponsored by the American Physical Society
Physical Sciences Resource Center, sponsored by the American Association of Physics Teachers
Little Shop of Physics, award-winning outreach program from Colorado State University
Physics Question-of-the-Week, from the University of Maryland
The Virtual Laboratory (More than 140 on-line physics Java applets and VRML resources)
PhysLink, physics and astronomy online since 1995
Fear of Physics Fear not! Physics. Explained. Finally. Homework help, too!
The Why Files, the science behind the news
MadSci Network, the laboratory that never sleeps (but probably should)
Contemporary Physics Education Project, charts, posters, web features, and other materials
Exploratorium and Science Snacks
Office for Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education University of Illinois
Amusement Park Physics, where you can design your own roller coaster
Discussion Board on Physics and Society Sponsored by the American Physical Society
