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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 31 January 2011
In this work we present two teaching modules, based on the combination of Scratchboard and Scratch, to be used for the study of materials' thermal properties such as thermal conductivity and heat capacity. These properties are very important for the understanding of many applications. In the design of the modules we have taken into account two scenarios, one for elementary and secondary school students and one for high school students. This determines not only the type of measurement and the analysis of the data but also the Scratch interface. The main emphasis for the lower grades is placed on the introduction of the concepts and a demonstration of the differences of the properties of different materials, while for the upper grades for making accurate measurements through inquiry based projects. Both modules have been implemented in a high school laboratory, providing reliable measurements and engaging the students in a higher level than usually.