Unit 6: 2-D Particle Model

Synopsis

1. Situation Analysis & Discussion I
Here we analyzed a student dropping a ball (straight down) from a
building. As a class we discussed the motion, motion map, and values of
a ball being dropped off a building.


2. Deployment: Unit 6 WS1







3. Activity: Projectile Video Analysis
In this activity we used a video provided before the lesson by Don of a
steel marble in projectile motion moving across a white background.
Each group of "students" uploaded this video onto a computer with a
large enough screen. We then taped a transparency sheet over the
computer screen. Using a fine-tip dry-erase marker, each group plotted
the path of the ball advancing through the video a single frame at a time.
The result was an unfinished motion map of the steel ball. The task at
hand, which was then assigned to us, was to complete the motion map
including velocity vectors in the horizontal and vertical directions
(separately) as well as any relevant acceleration vectors.



4. Situation Analysis & Discussion II

Here we analyzed a student throwing (instead of dropping) a ball from a
building.




Don used a hypothetical switch that turned gravity on or off to probe our
thinking of the horizontal motion of the ball.

5. Demonstration: Which ball hits first?

Here Don had a golf ball in each hand. He proposed the scenario of
throwing one horizontally (exactly) and dropping the
other simultaneously. The group discussed the possible outcomes of the
scenario. Don guided the discussion with references to our previous
experiences and constructed knowledge. We then made predictions and
observed the result.
6. Deployment: Unit 6 WS2




7. Arts & Crafts
I hated everything about this.

8. Practicums I & II
The practicums for this unit involved two different
situations involving two-dimensional motion.
Practicum I: The first practicum consisted of a ball rolling down a ramp,
across a flat table and onto the ground. Our objective was to place an
upside down paper cup so that the ball would strike the top of it.
Practicum II: The second practicum was more difficult. The presented
scenario consisted of a ball being launched from a projectile launcher at
varying angles (different angle for each group). The objective was the
same as the first practicum, to place an upside down paper cup so that
the ball would strike the top of it.

10. Unit Summary (2DPM)
The unit summary consisted of the representations for both horizontal
and vertical motion.