This activity can be used to explore forces acting on an object, to practice graphing experimental data, and/or to introduce the algebra concepts of slope and intercept of a line. A wooden 2x4 beam is set on top of two scales. Students learn how to conduct an experiment by applying loads at different locations along the beam, recording the exact position of the applied load and the reaction forces measured by the scales at each end of the beam. In addition, students will analyze the experiment data with the use of a chart and a table and model linear equations to describe relationships between independent and dependent variables.

Concepts

center of gravity, center of mass, engineering, stem, force

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Additional Tags

load, reaction forces, integrated teaching and learning program and laboratory, teachengineering, dependent variable, independent variable

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Classroom Considerations

• Knovation Readability Score: 3 (1 low difficulty, 5 high difficulty)