by John Wardle
7 January 2000
"Science software resources have characteristically fallen into the categories of delivery of concepts, or tools for exploration and investigation. Though this generally still holds true, there are encouraging signs of the two coming together," writes John Wardle.
"Crocodile Clips is popular in schools for simulating and investigating circuits. With their new titles the Crocodile has attacked the chemistry and physics curriculum.
"In Crocodile Chemistry, for example, you can create simulations of reactions by dragging beakers and filling them with reactants. You can monitor the reaction with temperature probes or watch new products form. No problem if your inquisitive year 10 tips potassium into concentrated sulphuric acid.
"It's a similar approach in the physics program (Crocodile Physics) that covers force and motion, optics, electricity and sound.
"These are impressive tools, which can be used to demonstrate principles but will be best when used to support pupil explorations."