JRO Physics » Posts in 'Learning Resources' category

Another practice exam paper for year 11

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Capacitor Cake

This was produced by a student for an each-one-teach-one activity on capacitance a week or so ago.

Capacitor cake

 

I was really impressed by the dielectric etc. It makes a really good (and tasty) model of a capacitor. I’m wondering what else could be represented in this form.

Suggestions please!

Homework calendar

In addition to being able to book sit-down time I’ve put up the homeworks onto the calendar here - in addition to the one in the VLE so you can see due dates and tasks etc!

Google Cal or “making time!”

In order that I can guarantee you all my time and attention to the fullest I’ve decided to open up my calendar to you.

I’ve set up the calander so that you can book lunchtimes or after-school sessions to sit down with me one to one (or in groups if you like) and work on any problems you have. These can be related to homework, class work, learning in general or anything else you want!

Obviously you don’t have to book these sessions - you’re quite welcome to drop in as always -  however you run the risk of not finding me or finding that I’m already dealing with someone.

If you don’t have a Gmail account or have other difficulties then feel free to email me your request.

6 gig of free storage!

Incredibly useful for those of us with limitted space on school networks, I’ve been using Orbitfiles lately with much success.

you can access it from anywhere and set-up couldn’t be simpler - all you need to do is type your e-mail address in the box and you’ll receive an e-mail with links to your area.

Try it! -

Mind Map software

One of the best ways to mind-map is to use pen and paper to sketch out your ideas however there are a few programs that help you produce really slick looking maps suitable for wall display etc:

http://www.mindmeister.com - is a “web 2.0″ online mind-mapping tool

http://freemind.sourceforge.net/wiki/index.php/Main_Page - is the home of Freemind, a free tool that I’ve used for years with great success and comes personally reccomended

For a short time you can get Concept-draw, a very expensive tool ($200) totally free!

Download here:

http://www.download.com/ConceptDraw-MINDMAP-5-Professional/3000-2075_4-10390694.html

Apply for the key here:

http://www.conceptdraw.com/registration/mm5special.php

Mind-Mapping

A mind map is a diagram of related information around a central idea. Wikipedia says a mind map is:

An image-centered diagram that represents semantic or other connections between portions of information. By presenting these connections in a radial, non-linear graphical manner, it encourages a brainstorming approach to any given organizational task, eliminating the hurdle of initially establishing an intrinsically appropriate or relevant conceptual framework to work within.

You start with a central idea, phrase or word which represents the main topic. Then, from that point, you create sub sections, which can have sub sections, and so on. A mind map is a visual outline that encourages free-form thinking and instant capture.

 

Here’s a great example (click for big):

They’re a fantastic way to organize your revision and to get an overview of a concept. Creating them can also be a good way to learn ideas for recall later - try taking notes in this form one day.

This is not to say that mind maps are for everyone. They may NOT be for you.

What I suggest, though, is even if you don’t think they’re for you but you haven’t tried it, next time you need to brainstorm something or take quick notes, keep it in mind as an option.

Static electricity Podcast

A short podcast covering some of the basics about charges attracting and repelling.

 
icon for podpress  Static electricity [6:28m]: Play Now | Download

Radiation podcast

A podcast covering some of the basics about alpha, beta, and gamma radiation

 
icon for podpress  Radiation Basics [9:44m]: Play Now | Download

Scalars and Vectors podcast…

I’m kicking off this years AS with scalar and vector quantities and a little about SI units. This podcast is focussed on scalar and vector quantities, the next will be SI units.

Thanks for tuning in!

 
icon for podpress  Scalars and Vectors [6:08m]: Play Now | Download