Archive for May 2008
Demonstrating the Force Components of Vectors
Posted by: Scott on: May 31, 2008
This is much harder to write than to show. The physics books usually have a problem about the tension in a horizontal cloths line with a single force hanging down in the middle. We can calculate these forces fairly easily, but hands on is better. The outdoor demonstration is to tie a strong rope between [...]
Mythbusters & The Scientific Method
Posted by: Scott on: May 31, 2008
- In: Projects
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The popular show Mythbusters is a terrific example of the application of the scientific method. Early in the school year I introduce the scientific method. I then hand my class a worksheet that they fill in as they watch one of the episodes I have on DVD. They have to identify the hypothesis, controls, variables, [...]
Matchstick Rockets
Posted by: Scott on: May 29, 2008
This is a favorite of the students. After studying Newton’s Laws of motion, we spend a day making rockets from paper match sticks. The process is simple, tear out a paper match, cover the top with a small piece of tightly wrapped aluminum foil, heat the match with a lighter and watch it launch. Students [...]
Rube Goldberg Project
Posted by: Scott on: May 29, 2008
We just finished this project today. It makes me nuts, but I like the results. My room looks like a junkyard for almost a month. You have to be able to live with chaos or don’t try this in school. If you are familiar with the game “Mousetrap” then you get the idea of the [...]
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