MTLE Physics (Grades 9-12) case studies
MTLE Physics (Grades 9-12) · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The MTLE Physics (Grades 9–12) is one of the content-area tests in the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations program, which Minnesota uses to evaluate candidates for a teaching license. It is aimed at people preparing to teach physics at the high school level and at candidates adding a physics licensure area. The MTLE Physics (Grades 9-12) case studies are 5 cases and about 3,362 words.
1Projectile Launcher Data That 'Disproves' the Range Equation
In a Grade 11 physics class, three lab groups use identical spring-loaded launchers clamped to the same long bench. Students launch 16 mm steel balls at 35° above horizontal and measure horizontal range with a meter stick taped to the floor.
711 words, about 4 min2Equal Brightness in Series and the 'Current Is Used Up' Model
In a conceptual physics class, students build a circuit with a 6.0 V battery, a switch, and two identical flashlight bulbs rated 6.0 V, 0.30 A in series. Before closing the switch, most students predict the first bulb will be brighter because 'the current gets used up.' When the switch is closed, both bulbs glow equally but dimly.
698 words, about 3 min3Calorimetry Result That Is Too Low
In a Grade 10 lab, students determine the specific heat of an unknown metal. Each group heats a 50.0 g sample in boiling water, then transfers it to a 100.0 g aluminum calorimeter cup (c = 0.90 J/(g·°C)) holding 150.0 g of water at 22.0 °C.
659 words, about 3 min4Item Analysis: Acceleration at the Top of a Toss
A district midterm includes this multiple-choice item: 'A ball is thrown straight upward and moves freely. At the highest point of its flight, what is the ball's acceleration?
612 words, about 3 min5Class 3R Laser Pointer for a Total Internal Reflection Demo
A student proposes using a 5 mW, 650 nm laser pointer to demonstrate total internal reflection in a rectangular acrylic block for a science fair. The pointer has no key switch, no aperture label, and a warning label that says 'Class 3R.' District policy permits only Class 2 lasers in student activities and requires a documented hazard assessment for anything above that.
682 words, about 3 min