Physics Professor how-to

How to Run a Classroom Physics Demonstration

Demos make concepts memorable.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Demos make concepts memorable. In short: pick; ask; run, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Pick one concept.

  2. Ask students to predict.

  3. Run the demo.

  4. Discuss results.

  5. Explain the physics.

  6. Connect to equations.

Safety reminders for physics professors

  • Follow laser and radiation safety
  • Secure lab equipment
  • Supervise demonstrations
  • Protect student privacy

Tenure · Adjunct · Syllabus · Peer review · Office hours · Sabbatical: see the full physics professor glossary.

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