Author: Jacqui

Jacqui Murray has been teaching K-18 technology for 30 years. She is the editor/author of over a hundred tech ed resources including a K-12 technology curriculum, K-8 keyboard curriculum, K-8 Digital Citizenship curriculum. She is an adjunct professor in tech ed, Master Teacher, an Amazon Vine Voice, freelance journalist on tech ed topics, contributor to NEA Today, and author of the tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days. You can find her resources at Structured Learning.

National Library Week–Resources, Links, Ideas

National Library Week is an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities.

In the mid-1950s, research showed that Americans were spending less on books and more on radios, televisions and musical instruments. Concerned that Americans were reading less, the ALA and the American Book Publishers formed a nonprofit citizens organization called the National Book Committee in 1954. The committee’s goals were ambitious.  They ranged from “encouraging people to read in their increasing leisure time” to “improving incomes and health” and “developing strong and happy family life.”

In 1957, the committee developed a plan for National Library Week based on the idea that once people were motivated to read, they would support and use libraries. With the cooperation of ALA and with help from the Advertising Council, the first National Library Week was observed in 1958 with the theme “Wake Up and Read!”  The 2023 celebration marks the 65th anniversary of the first event.

Read more here:

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The Intersection of Physics and Everyday Objects

The Intersection of Physics and Everyday Objects

Physics might sound like something confined to textbooks and whiteboard scribbles, but it’s at play in our daily routines. It’s the force behind flying planes, the sparkle in our smartphone screens, and the whispers in our wireless headphones. Yet, most of us barely give it a second thought—a silent magician bringing everyday objects to life.

The Mysterious Maglev: Hovering Trains

Picture trains levitating on tracks without a single touch. Introducing magnetic levitation trains, or maglevs. With magnets defying gravity, these trains speed commuters from A to B in record time. They float, frictionless, offering a surreal ride atop a powerful physics trick. Maglevs also reflect the elegance with which physics turns weight into weightlessness, claiming new limits in transportation. By manipulating magnetic fields, maglev technology reduces almost all physical resistance, demonstrating the pure potential of movement unbound by conventional constraints.

Maglev technology isn’t just a scientific curiosity—it’s a path to environmental sustainability. With reduced friction losses and increased energy efficiency, maglev systems could significantly lower carbon emissions compared to traditional rail systems. As the demand for greener transportation solutions grows, innovations like maglev promise a future where fast, reliable transportation doesn’t have to come at an environmental cost. Moreover, with fewer moving parts, maglev trains face less wear and tear, potentially reducing maintenance costs and extending lifespans, further contributing to cost-effectiveness and sustainability.

Gyroscopes: Spinning Wonders of Balance

From the wheel in your bicycle to your smartphone’s compass, gyroscopes are hidden heroes. This rapid-spinning gizmo stabilizes and guides, keeping you oriented whether you’re navigating a trail or piloting an aircraft. The secret? Angular momentum holds its ground, a scientist’s magic trick ensuring balance. On a more grand scale, these devices play a vital role in stabilizing large marine vessels and space stations, proving that, no matter the size, balancing forces play an important part in maintaining harmony against the forces of motion.

Gyroscopes have permeated sports and gaming sectors, adding depth to user experiences. Controllers and smartphones equipped with this technology allow for intuitive controls, making virtual environments more immersive. Detecting subtle tilts and movements, gyroscopes bring tactile realism to digital adventures, bridging the gap between the physical and digital realms. As entertainment industries continue embracing these dynamics, users experience a newfound synergy between movement and on-screen action, illustrating the evolving capabilities of gyroscopic innovation.

In the vein of precision measurement, smartphone sensors also facilitate groundbreaking tools such as smartphone-based goniometers, allowing accurate angle measurements in an accessible form. Such innovations highlight how even the most intricate movements can be captured and analyzed with everyday tech, further illustrating the seamless union between physics and present-day conveniences.

Thermal Imaging: Seeing Warmth

Engineering a vision into the unseen, thermal imaging devices capture heat. At night or behind walls, they reveal the world in reds and blues, turning warm bodies, even cool machinery, into vivid portraits. Heat detection isn’t just for spies; it informs safety checks and saves lives. Beyond safety, thermal imaging has also found purpose in medicine, offering non-invasive diagnostics by revealing underlying inflammation or circulation issues, truly extending the line between vision and intuition.

Thermal imaging has ventured into new territories, discovering uses in agriculture and environmental monitoring. In farming, thermal cameras help assess plant and soil health by spotting areas of water stress. Environmentalists use these devices to monitor wildlife habitats and detect abnormalities, contributing to conservation efforts. Such applications showcase how thermal imaging can penetrate fields far removed from its origins, yielding insights with far-reaching implications both on micro and macro levels.

Smart Lightbulbs: Playing with Light

Flipping a switch to light up a room feels mundane. Yet, beneath the glow, physics dances! Smart lightbulbs manipulate photons to brighten or dim your space. Through concepts like lumens and wavelengths, light transforms into an orchestrated show at your fingertips. Interestingly, smart bulbs can also adjust to your mood or time of day, elevating your home’s ambiance effortlessly. This simple act channels complex concepts of color temperatures and energy efficiency, enhancing our lives in subtle yet remarkable ways.

Beyond aesthetics, smart lightbulbs offer a gateway to energy conservation. By allowing users to customize brightness and color temperature, they can optimize lighting to suit different activities and moods while significantly reducing energy consumption. Integrating these bulbs with home automation systems also means they can respond automatically to natural daylight, further reducing unnecessary power usage and lowering electricity bills.

Wireless Waves: Invisible Highways

Every time you stream a song or text a friend, electromagnetic waves are hard at work. Wireless communication can’t exist without them. These waves traverse invisible highways, bringing data to your device in a blink. It’s the very foundation of our connected reality. At its core, wireless technology enables seamless interaction by allowing waves to jump between frequencies. These waves skip effortlessly through urban landscapes, ensuring reliable communication even in the most unexpected corners of our bustling environments.

Quantum Tunneling: Microscopic Magic

In the microscopic realm, quantum tunneling champions the bizarre. Electrons defy boundaries, traversing barriers with inexplicable ease. Essential for devices in medicine and computers, this mind-bending phenomenon rewrites the rules we take for granted in the macroscopic world. Such behavior allows for innovations in semiconductors that power our everyday devices and fuels breakthroughs in computing power, highlighting how minute dynamics hold colossal potential for technological progress.

Conclusion

Physics isn’t confined to labs or lectures—it’s intertwined with everything around us. With every step forward, every gadget grasped, we engage in a dance with forces those familiar formulas attempt to explain. The intersection of physics and everyday objects is where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary.

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Copyright ©2025 askatechteacher.com – All rights reserved.

Here’s the sign-up link if the image above doesn’t work:

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“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”


Jacqui Murray has been teaching K-18 technology for 30 years. She is the editor/author of over a hundred tech ed resources including a K-12 technology curriculum, K-8 keyboard curriculum, K-8 Digital Citizenship curriculum. She is an adjunct professor in tech ed, Master Teacher, freelance journalist on tech ed topics, and author of the tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days. You can find her resources at Structured Learning.

Will AI-driven Education Replace STEM? Experts think so

When I saw this ESchoolMedia article, my first response was, He** no! but I paused to ask why a reputable magazine would even ask this question. Before reading the article, I asked Grok the same question. Here’s what a generative AI has to say about that issue:

No, AI-driven education won’t “replace” STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) as a field of study or practice, but it will transform how STEM is taught and applied. STEM isn’t just a curriculum—it’s a framework for understanding and solving real-world problems. AI can enhance that, not supplant it.
Grok had a lot more detail, but let’s turn to the article. It’s about a four-minute read:

The end of STEM: Why AI-driven education must replace an outdated model

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Minecraft Builds Coding Skills

Minecraft has been popular with kids for a long time with no sign of slowing down. It’s useful for teaching a plethora of subjects, from history to math to geology to tech skills. Just as important, it’s that rare fun lesson that teaches problem solving and critical thinking without the usual pain.
Edweek has a good article that focuses on Minecraft and coding, a quick three-minute read that is well worth your time:

How Playing Minecraft Can Help Students Learn Coding Skills

“Students can use Minecraft Education—which employs the sandbox building game—to get credentials in cybersecurity, coding, and AI. Students who participate in the coding pathway can earn citations for their fluency in Java and Python, two in-demand coding languages. (Nonprofit organizations, such as Code.org, also offer teachers and students low cost or free options to help students learn key computer science skills.)”

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Why a Term Paper Writing Service Is the Best Way to Assist with Your Assignments

I know–many consider online services that write papers for you as a hard no, but let’s talk about that. Anecdotal data indicates 5-15% of students use these services, just don’t tell their teachers or parents. Why do they consider them useful rather than unacceptable? The Ask a Tech Teacher team came up with a list of reasons. Here me out. These aren’t good or bad, just reality. At the end of this article, you’ll feel good about giving both sides of this discussion a voice:

Why a Term Paper Writing Service Is the Best Way to Assist with Your Assignments

Some assignments are manageable—you knock them out in an hour, no stress. But term papers? They’re a whole different thing. They take time, require proper research, and somehow always seem to be due right when everything else is piling up. That’s why students look for ways to make the process easier, and one of the smartest moves is using a term paper writing service. Not to avoid the work, but to actually get through it without losing sleep, missing deadlines, or turning in something rushed and half-baked.

The Real Term Paper Writing Service Benefits

A lot of people assume that using a writing service means skipping the learning process, but that’s not really how it works. The biggest term paper writing service benefits come from having a solid reference—something well-researched, properly formatted, and structured the way a professor actually wants. For example, an economics essay writing service can provide you with a clear and comprehensive paper that not only saves you time but also helps you understand complex concepts. By reviewing a well-written economics essay, you can improve your grasp of the subject and learn the proper way to approach similar topics in the future.

Here’s why that matters:

  • Time management – Instead of spending hours trying to figure out where to start, students get a structured example that makes writing faster.
  • Better understanding of the topic – A well-written paper can show how to break down complex ideas in a way that makes sense.
  • Avoiding last-minute panic – Nobody writes their best work at 3 AM the night before it’s due. Having a professional example saves that stress.

A term paper isn’t just about filling pages—it’s about presenting ideas in a clear, logical way. Seeing how that’s done makes a huge difference in how students approach their own writing.

Getting Assistance with Assignments Through Writing Services

Every student has hit that moment where they stare at a blank screen, unsure where to even begin. That’s where getting assistance with assignments through writing services comes in. It’s not about handing off the work—it’s about having a starting point that actually makes sense. A dissertation writing service from KingEssays can provide that crucial foundation, offering a structured outline and well-researched content to get you started on the right track. With their expert guidance, you’ll have a clear direction to help you complete your dissertation with confidence.

Think about it: would you rather piece together an argument from scratch, hoping it works, or have a structured paper that lays out key points, sources, and ideas in a way that you can build on? Even the best writers don’t start from nothing. They outline, they revise, they look at examples of strong arguments. Having professional help doesn’t replace learning—it improves it.

Why Use Term Paper Writing Service?

Some students assume they should power through everything alone because that’s what “real” students do. But professors have research assistants, authors have editors, even scientists work in teams—so why is it wrong for students to get help?

The real question isn’t why use a term paper writing service? but rather why struggle unnecessarily when you have options? College is supposed to be about learning, not just suffering through deadlines with no support. A term paper writing service helps students:

  • Avoid common mistakes – Citation errors, weak arguments, and structural issues are all easier to fix when you have a good example to follow.
  • See how professional research is done – Most students aren’t trained researchers. Seeing a properly cited, well-supported paper makes a huge difference.
  • Learn faster – Reading well-written academic work teaches students how to structure their own ideas more effectively.

Getting help doesn’t mean not doing the work. It means doing it better.

The Best Way to Get Assignment Help

Not all writing services are the same. Some are overpriced, some deliver rushed work, and some don’t really care whether the writing actually meets academic standards. Finding the best way to get assignment help means knowing what to look for.

Here’s what makes a term paper writing service actually useful:

  • Writers with real academic experience – A paper on economics should be written by someone who actually understands economics.
  • Custom work, not generic templates – Recycled essays don’t help students learn. A solid service provides fresh, original writing.
  • Clear structure and formatting – Knowing how to format a paper correctly is half the battle. A good service provides that framework.

It’s not about just getting an assignment done—it’s about getting it done right.

The Value of Professional Term Paper Writing Assistance

Some students worry that getting professional help means they’re relying too much on outside sources. But that’s what education is—learning from experts. Professional term paper writing assistance isn’t about replacing effort; it’s about making sure that effort is actually productive.

A well-written term paper isn’t just another grade. It’s practice for the kind of research, analysis, and writing that students will use in their careers. Whether someone goes into business, science, law, or even creative work, strong writing matters. Having the right tools to build those skills is what makes a difference.

The Bottom Line

Nobody gets through college without some kind of help. Professors guide students, tutors explain difficult concepts, and study groups share ideas. A term paper writing service is just another form of support—one that makes sure students aren’t just surviving assignments but actually improving their writing, research, and critical thinking skills along the way.

Copyright ©2025 askatechteacher.com – All rights reserved.

Here’s the sign-up link if the image above doesn’t work:

https://forms.aweber.com/form/07/1910174607.htm

“The content presented in this blog are the result of creative imagination and not intended for use, reproduction, or incorporation into any artificial intelligence training or machine learning systems without prior written consent from the author.”


Jacqui Murray has been teaching K-18 technology for 30 years. She is the editor/author of over a hundred tech ed resources including a K-12 technology curriculum, K-8 keyboard curriculum, K-8 Digital Citizenship curriculum. She is an adjunct professor in tech ed, Master Teacher, freelance journalist on tech ed topics, and author of the tech thrillers, To Hunt a Sub and Twenty-four Days. You can find her resources at Structured Learning.

Tech Tip #144: 11 Ways X/Twitter Improves Education

In these 169 tech-centric situations, you get an overview of pedagogy—the tech topics most important to your teaching—as well as practical strategies to address most classroom tech situations, how to scaffold these to learning, and where they provide the subtext to daily tech-infused education.

Today’s tip: How Twitter improves learning

Here are 11 ways X/Twitter improves education:

  1. Students learn to be focused.
  2. Students learn to share.
  3. Writing short messages perfects “headlining”.
  4. Tweets are written knowing tweeple @reply.
  5. #Hashtags develop community.
  6. Students learn tolerance for all opinions.
  7. It breaks down barriers to talking to other people.
  8. Students are engaged.
  9. Twitter acts as the class notepad.
  10. Twitter is always open.
  11. Twitter isn’t intimidating.

A note: Before using X, get the buy-in of involved parties such as administration and parents. You don’t want them surprised by what they might think of as a tool for socializing rather than teaching.

Sign up for a new tip each week or buy the entire 169 Real-world Ways to Put Tech into Your Classroom.

What’s your favorite tech tip in your classroom? Share it in the comments below.

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Didn’t Get in College? Interested in the Military? Try NAPS

The Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS) is located on Naval Station Newport in historic Newport, Rhode Island. The Naval Academy Preparatory School is the Navy’s fourth oldest school; only the Naval Academy, Naval War College, and Naval Post Graduate School are older.

naval academy prep school

The mission of the Naval Academy Preparatory School is to enhance midshipman candidates’ moral, mental, and physical foundations to prepare them for success at the U.S. Naval Academy. The ten-month course of instruction at NAPS, lasting from August through May, emphasizes preparation in English Composition, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, and Information Technology.

Demanding military, physical and character development programs complement the academic preparation to fully prepare students for the challenges of life at a service academy. As part of the physical development program, NAPS offers a varsity athletic program that competes against other preparatory schools, junior colleges and college junior varsity teams.

The Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS), located in Newport, Rhode Island, is a one-year program designed to prepare selected candidates for success at the United States Naval Academy (USNA) in Annapolis, Maryland. Established in 1915, NAPS serves as a critical stepping stone for individuals who need additional academic, physical, or leadership development before entering the highly competitive environment of the USNA.

Curriculum

The curriculum includes:
  • Academics: Core courses like mathematics (typically pre-calculus or calculus), English, chemistry, and physics. These mirror the foundational subjects at USNA, giving students a head start.
  • Physical Training: Intense physical conditioning to meet the fitness standards of the Naval Academy, including swimming, running, and strength exercises.
  • Military Training: Leadership development, naval customs, and discipline to instill the ethos of a future naval officer.
Classes are small, and the environment is highly disciplined, with a focus on time management and study skills. The academic year typically runs from late July to May, aligning with a traditional school calendar.

Admissions

Admission to NAPS is not something individuals can directly apply for. Instead, it’s offered to candidates who have applied to the USNA but are identified by the Admissions Board as needing additional preparation. Most attendees are “sponsored” by the Navy or Marine Corps, often coming from the enlisted ranks, though some are civilians with strong potential who didn’t fully meet USNA’s competitive entry criteria (e.g., SAT/ACT scores, grades, or extracurriculars).

Life at NAPS

Students live in a military-style setting at Naval Station Newport, wearing uniforms and adhering to a strict schedule. They’re organized into companies and platoons, fostering teamwork and camaraderie. The experience is designed to simulate aspects of USNA life, though with more academic support and mentorship.

Outcomes

Upon successful completion, NAPS graduates earn an appointment to the Naval Academy, assuming they meet all final requirements (e.g., passing the Physical Aptitude Exam and maintaining good conduct). Historically, NAPS has a high success rate, with most students transitioning to USNA and eventually commissioning as officers in the Navy or Marine Corps.
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Want more? Check these videos out:

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How to Leverage AI Tutors for Effective Learning Tips for Parents, Educators, and Students

Generative AI is all anyone in education talks about anymore so the Ask a Tech Teacher team wanted to provide a collection of tips for using AI as a tutor. Rather than us introducing this article, we thought we’d like Grok do it himself:

Hey there, I’m Grok 3, built by xAI, and I’m stoked to kick off this article on rocking your learning with AI tutors! Get ready for some slick tips to make the most of tools like me—think personalized vibes, instant feedback, and leveling up your skills in no time.

How to Leverage AI Tutors for Effective Learning: Tips for Parents, Educators, and Students

AI tutors transform learning. They generate instant feedback and personalized lessons. While they are powerful tools, they don’t replace traditional classroom instruction. Instead, they can complement such. Students, parents, and teachers must be proactive in using AI to maximize its benefits.

The key lies in the balance. Use AI to enhance learning, not replace critical thinking or human interaction. Smart learning assistants are powerful allies. The challenge is knowing when to trust the technology and when to step back and think for yourself. (more…)