PHET, from the University of Colorado, Boulder, is an online repository of interactive simulations and lessons for the Science and Math classroom. Teachers can create a free account and begin to use PHET after confirming their account via email.
- free, open resources
- teacher account required
- requires download to play sims
- widely used in educational institutions
- Sims have been translated into multiple languages including French
PHET Interactive app for iPad (new in Fall 2016) is perfect for offline use and allows mobile users to view sims.
- Compatible with iPad iOS 9.1 or later.
- Cost: 99 cents (the developers note that this cost helps fund more HTML5 Sims)
Many science and math concepts can be explored through a variety of hands-on and virtual learning opportunities and can be scaffolded to support learners at varying levels of understanding. Many schools will have boxes and bins of various science equipment for teachers to use with their classes. Teachers can also purchase the needed equipment in bulk to keep per student costs reasonable. Free on-line Simulations can provide excellent vehicles for students to further explore and develop their understanding.
‘Physics Classroom’ is another free site – it has simulations and lesson plans with no download required to your computer.
- frees
- no account needed
- no download required to play sims
Be sure to try to engage your students in some hands-on exploration of the topic or concept (ex. Exploring electrical circuits) using activities such as ‘Squishy Circuits‘, ‘Makey Makey’ or ‘Paper Circuits’.
Read this article about the value of simulations in the science classroom and to find some interesting ways to integrate simulations into your teaching (including additional online sims).
Visit PHET to sign up for a student or teacher account. Activate your account using the email provided and then just get started exploring the simulations. Most sims require download to your computer so you may need to adjust your security settings in order to ‘play’.
‘Physics Classroom’ is another free site – it has simulations and lesson plans with no download required to your computer.
For both sites, lesson plans accompany each simulation. With PHET, teachers can even become authors by sharing the resources they create.
Take a PHET tutorial, webinar or download workshop information (or just launch a sim and play!).