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Outline

The Wonders of Physics Prof. Clint Sprott Department of Physics University of Wisconsin - Madison presented to the American Physical Society in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on April 6, 2003

Outline The Need The Approach The History The Presentation Spinoffs

The Need Over 200 studies document scientific illiteracy. Scientific illiteracy hurts Nation and individuals. Teachers are uncomfortable teaching science. Science has fallen out of favor. We have a public-relations problem.

The Approach Dramatic demonstrations, fast-paced, minimal explanations Entertain first, education second Encourage interaction and curiosity Emphasize phenomena, not facts Appeal to a cross-section of ages, education, and interests

The History 20 years, 161 presentations, >50,000 people 6 scheduled shows per year + special presentations Capacity crowds at every show Over 200 demos (20-30 in a typical show)

The Presentation Scheduling and publicity Tickets / ushers / handouts Costume Entrance Audience participation Special guests Live music Videotaping Exit Laboratory tours

Topics Motion Heat Sound Electricity Magnetism Light Modern Physics

Sample Themes Chaos and Randomness Physics of the Weather Physics of the Body Physics of Energy Physics of Flying Physics of Transportation

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Spinoffs Traveling shows (800) Videotapes (20 hours) Computer software Demonstration book Written handouts Lecture kit Teacher’s workshops Radio and TV interviews Web site

Traveling Show Over 800 shows in 15 yrs Mostly precollege schools Half-time person (Jim Reardon) supported by US Department of Energy Donations ($100-400) requested per show Some corporate donors

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References http://sprott.physics.wisc.edu/lectures/woptalk.htm http://sprott.physics.wisc.edu/wop.htm sprott@physics.wisc.edu