Book, Teaching Guide, Video Physicist: Wu Chien Shiung

These resources explore Wu Chien Shiung, a pioneering Chinese American physicist renowned for her contributions to nuclear physics. The materials explore her groundbreaking work, her challenges with racism and sexism, and her legacy in shaping the scientific community.

BOOK
Queen of Physics: How Wu Chien Shiung Helped Unlock the Secrets of the Atom by Theresa Robeson, illustrated by Rebecca Huang (teaching ideas here)

VIDEOS
“Chien-Shiung Wu: Unsung Heroes of Science 2020” – Hertford College, Oxford
“Hidden Science Superstars: Chien-Shiung Wu” – College of Wooster
“Life Story: Chien-Shiung Wu (1912-1997)” – New York Historical Society
“Chien-Shiung Wu: The First Lady of Physics” – Share My Lesson-AFT

ACTIVITY IDEAS
Inspiring Innovators Poster
Objective: Learn about Wu Chien Shiung’s perseverance and achievements.
Activity: Students research Wu Chien Shiung’s life and accomplishments, then create an inspiring poster that highlights her contributions to physics and her impact on future generations of women and minorities in science.

Class Discussion on Overcoming Barriers
Objective: Explore the challenges Wu Chien Shiung faced due to racism and sexism and how she overcame them.
Activity: After watching a video or reading about Wu Chien Shiung, students participate in a class discussion on the importance of perseverance and challenging social barriers. Students share their own examples of challenges they’ve overcome or how they can work towards creating an inclusive society.