[Phys-L] Re: Science curriculum sequence: Grades 6 - 12

[John Clement <clement@HAL-PC.ORG>]

Absolutely.  Unfortunately standard geometry courses not only are not very
effective, but they also instill fear of math.  The McDermott material has a
great deal of effectiveness.  If geometry and algebra were taught the same
way, we would be getting students competent and confident in math.

John M. Clement
Houston, TX

> If you look at the McDermott material on light and shadows there is lots
> that will enhance students' understanding of geometry, and even get them
> to overcome their fear.  I have a student who froze the first time she
> looked at a diagram of how light passes through a large hole and strikes
> a screen...she said it reminded her of high school geometry, and she
> locked up.  After about 3 weeks of work with it on paper and seeing what
> happens as she does things, and how well she can predict from the
> drawings, she seems to have lost her fright.
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