Vector Lesson Plans

Students investigate a compass course and prepare a vector diagram. In this vector lesson plan, students walk an assigned course using a compass. They pace the course and take into account the length and direction of each section of the course. They create a vector diagram of their course and follow directions at the end. Students use a program called Vector Addition 3 to enter their data and find the resultant in order to record the final magnitude and direction.

Students imagine the way lines look. In this vector lesson, students recognize how to find a vector equation, Cartesian equation or perpendicular distance. Students find angles between planes. Students complete an activity with true/false questions.

Eleventh graders investigate vectors in standard position.  In this Algebra II instructional activity, 11th graders use the CellSheet application to find the sum of two vectors.  Students convert from polar to rectangular coordinates and vice versa. 

Students explore the concept of vectors. In this vector lesson, students use an applet to direct an airplane using vectors. Students notice the effect of wind vectors on the airplane.

Students use vector analysis to examine the concept of dead reckoning. They listen to a teacher-led lecture, complete a Vector Voyage Worksheet with the teacher, answer discussion questions, and use the Pythagorean Theorem for speed conversions.

Students create translations.  In this vectors and translations lesson, students watch a PowerPoint to explore translations.  They use interactive whiteboards to create translations.  Finally, they complete a  translation worksheet.

Students investigate vectors and understand how to use them. In this vector lesson, students determine why it is essential to determine size and direction in some problems and to compare with scalar properties. Students complete examples using vectors and scalar measurements.

Twelfth graders investigate the capabilities of the TI-89.  In this calculus lesson, 12th graders explore the parametric equation for a circle, for arc length of curves, and for trajectories.  Students investigate the symbolic and graphical representation of vectors.  Students use polar functions of investigate the area bounded by a curve.  Students investigate a 3D graphing application. 

Twelfth graders investigate projectile motion.  In this calculus lesson, 12th graders explore the vector model of projectile motion and then derive the parametric model from the vector model.  Students use the symbolic capabilities of the TI-89 to solve the projectile motion problem. 

Twelfth graders explore vector addition and subtraction using an online simulation website. In this physics instructional activity, 12th graders complete a worksheet package during the simulation. They take a mastery quiz after the instructional activity.