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Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Comparing Sunscreens

For Teachers 12th
Twelfth graders use a microcomputer connected to an ultra-violet sensor to compare the relative blocking power of different SPF sunscreens for the UVB region of the solar spectrum.
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Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Reflection and Absorption of Light

For Teachers Higher Ed
Students use a microcomputer connected to a light sensor and temperature probe to explore the reflection and absorption of radiation for different surfaces. Students follow instructions in this guided inquiry based lab and are then asked...
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Handout
Wikimedia

Wikipedia: Altair 8800

For Students 9th - 10th
This extensive encyclopedia article on the Altair 8800 from Wikipedia discusses how Ed Roberts came up with the idea to create a microcomputer design. Also discusses how, first, it was supposed to be a kit for hobbyists and turned into...
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Website
PBS

Pbs Triumph of the Nerds: A History of the Computer

For Students 3rd - 8th
This companion website for acclaimed PBS series "Triumph of the Nerds" explores the history of the computer, tracing the progression of computing technologies from the abacus to the World Wide Web.
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Article
PBS

Pbs: Science Odyssey: Personal Computer Industry Is Launched

For Students 9th - 10th
An article on the development of the microcomputer industry focusing mostly around the Altair and Ed Roberts' contributions.