PS4.A: Wave Properties

In this video Paul Andersen describes some of the properties of waves.  He starts be identifying particles and waves as the only phenomenon that can transfer energy from place to place.  He identifies the defining characteristics of waves; wavelength, frequency and amplitude.  He defines sound as the movement of compressional waves through air and resonance as waves interfering both constructively and destructively.  A teaching progression K-12 is also included.

ESS2.B: Plate Tectonics and Large-Scale System Interactions

In this video Paul Andersen explains how plate tectonics explains the large-scale system interactions on our planet.  Large plates float on the mantle and interact to form the major landforms on the planet.  Evidence for plate tectonics include the location of earthquakes, the reversed polarity of newly formed oceanic crust and the warping of crust by large bodies like glaciers and lakes.  A K-12 teaching progression is also included.

ESS2.A: Earth Materials and Systems

In this video Paul Andersen describes the four major spheres on planet Earth.  The geosphere makes up the mass of the planet and includes the major landforms.  The hydrosphere is all of the water and the atmosphere is all of the gases.  The biosphere exists where the others spheres interface.  A K-12 teaching progression is also included.

CCC5: Matter and Energy

In this video Paul Andersen explains how matter and energy flow and cycle through systems.  He starts by explaining how energy and matter input and output will always be conserved.  He addresses the many misconceptions surround energy and matter including the belief that food contains energy.  He explains how nuclear reactions conserve both batter and energy.  The video ends with a teaching progression for grades K-12.

SEP2: Developing and Using Models

Paul Andersen explains the importance of modeling in science and engineering.  Models are used by scientists to explain phenomenon.  Unlike mental models, conceptual models can be shared by all scientists to improve our understanding of the Universe.  Engineers use models study systems and test designs.