Projectile Motion

Description of the Lesson

Overview

After capturing on video the kicking, throwing, or launching of an object, students will calculate initial velocity, develop the horizontal and vertical parametric equations, then use the vertical equation and vertex formula for parabolas to estimate the time to reach maximum height and the maximum height.

ISTE Standard

6a-Students choose the appropriate platforms and tools for meeting the desired objectives of their creation or communication.

6b-Students create original works or responsibly repurpose or remix digital resources into new creations.

6c-Students communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively by creating or using a variety of digital objects such as visualizations, models or simulations.

6d-Students publish or present content that customizes the message and medium for their intended audiences.

NE Standard

MA11.2.3.a Analyze, model, and solve real-world problems using various representations (graphs, tables, linear equations and inequalities, systems of linear equations, quadratic, exponential, square root, and absolute value functions).

Rubric Used for Assessment

NA

Example Student Artifact(s)

Student Examples and Reflection

Lesson Design Reflection

HOOK/ATTENTION GETTER:  YouTube video

DIRECT INSTRUCTION:

Teacher Instructions:  You will need to teach the concepts of projectile motion/parametric equations and give students a chance to practice those concepts before assigning this project.

GUIDED PRACTICE: 

Teacher Instructions:  As an example, I used a styrofoam rocket and showed/explained my Powerpoint presentation to my classes.  (Note: to view the video on the second slide you will need to click on the settings icon at the bottom of the screen and choose download as PPTX.)

INDEPENDENT PRACTICE: 

Teacher Instructions:  Students were allowed to work individually or with one or two other people.  I gave them three days to complete the project with some in-class time.

Student Instructions/Assessment:  See explanation sheet and rubric

Personal Reflection

NA