Physics Classroom
Fnet = m•a
Most pupils learn quickly how to apply Newton's Second Law equation to calculate net force. However, many struggle to determine net force before calculating the value of an unknown force from a force diagram. As part of a larger series...
Physics Classroom
Trajectory - Angle Launched Projectiles
Horizontal and vertical speeds change as projectiles move through space. As part of a series on vectors and projectiles, scholars create vector diagrams to compare these speeds at various locations. They they determine the values for...
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Matter and Motion
In this matter and motion worksheet, students solve 4 different problems that relate to determining the matter and motion of a function problem. First, they find the limit of a as n to infinity and then, determine whether each series...
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Circular Motion
Twelfth graders discuss centrifugal force, frictional force, and critical speed as it relates to the popular amusement park ride, the Gravitron.
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Winter Moves
Young scholars discuss the effects of downhill motion on the body, and discern how the human eye perceives motion by studying Edward Muybridge's photography. They observe seasonal changes and identify elements related to the winter...
NASA
Two Versions of Gravity: Newton and Einstein
We have all heard the debate about teaching both theories, but an innovative lesson plan takes the discussion to a new level. Scholars research and debate Newton's Law of Gravitation versus Einstein's General Theory of Relativity with...
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Modeling Martian Motion
Students explore the difference between stars and planets and take on the role of these objects to simulate the relative motions of Mars and the Earth around the Sun.
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Matter and Motion 3
In this matter and motion worksheet, students solve 3 different types of problems that relate to the chain rule for multivariable functions. First, they find the rate of increase of the volume of a can and the rate of increase of the...
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Foucault's Pendulum
Students investigate how the motion of the Foucault pendulum proves that the Earth is rotating. They research the Internet about pendulums and conduct an experiment online. They view a multimedia presentation about pendulums and read...
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History of Flight Timeline Activity
Scholars are introduced to the significant events that led to the development of today's modern forms of air travel. They create a timeline to identify the vital events that are related to man's flight. In addition, they research various...
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Monterey Bay
Young scholars read background information about Monterey Bay, California, and conduct related experiments. In this ocean in motion lesson, students read information about the location, wildlife, and characteristics of Monterey Bay. They...
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Playing With Science
Young scientists investigate the scientific concepts and principles that help make common toys such as hula hoops, yo-yos, slinkies, and silly putty work. As a class, they read "Backyard Rocket Science, Served Wet" to get a look behind...
Incredible Art
Skateboard Deck Graphics
Young artists don't need to be skateboarders to enjoy this assignment. Class members use the provided worksheet to craft 10 sketches that convey action or motion using no more than seven lines. They then select their three best ideas and...
PHET
Forces in 1 Dimension
A realistic simulation uses charts to show forces, position, velocity, and acceleration versus time based on how the simulation is set up. Once those concepts are mastered, scholars use free body diagrams to explain how each graph...
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Motion in Fluids
Students explore physical science by participating in a science activity. In this liquids lesson, students discuss how fluids can be affected by motion unlike solids. Students define other scientific vocabulary terms and conduct a motion...
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The Physics of Skateboarding
Students are able to analyze gravity as an universal force. They are able to determine how the force of friction retards motion. Students are able to apply Newton's Laws of Motion ot the way the world works.
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Medieval Catapults
Students design and build a working catapult or trebuchet to explore the concepts of force, motion, and distance.
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Let's Get Moving
Students participate in sports activities that relate to motion, velocity and momentum. They produce a PowerPoint presentation after researching the activities.
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Newton's Laws
Students experiment with and analyze moving objects and explain their motion in relation to Newton's Laws of Motion. Students then work with partners to design and construct cars that are powered by balloons.
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Cartoon Creation
Fifth graders create four to six illustrations that produce sequential movement and change when rapidly flipped through, and demonstrate that motion and change can be shown in a series of illustrations by sharing his/her original cartoon...
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Let's Do the Wave!
Students distinguish waves from matter, differentiate between transverse and longitudinal waves, use sine curves as representations of transverse waves, label characteristic properties of waves, diagram transverse waves having specific...
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Physics and Me
Sixth graders compare and contrast mass and weight. In this physics lesson plan, 6th graders calculate speed given distance and time information. They construct a rocket and relate this to Newton's 3rd Law of motion.
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Atlatl Lessons for Grade 7
Seventh graders examine force and motion. In this seventh grade mathematics/science lesson, 7th graders collect and analyze data regarding the use of an atlatl to throw a spear. Students describe and analyze the motion which leads to the...
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Move It, Sir Isaac!
Third graders analyze the work of Sir Isaac Newton as they investigate the laws of motion and force. Inertia is observed through a lump of clay.