Activity Detail
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Frictional Forces
 


Activity Overview

In this activity, students' will use a Dual range force sensor to measure the force required to pull a block across different surfaces. They will examine the results to see when more force is needed to move the block and understand the role of frictional force on motion.

Before the Activity

  • Connect the force sensor into channel 1 of the CBL 2
  • Start the DataMate™ program
  • See the attached PDF file for detailed instructions for this activity
  • Print pages 67 - 72 from the attached PDF file for your class

    		•

    		During the Activity

    		Distribute the pages to your class.
  • Complete the Hypothesis section on the Data Collection and Analysis page and predict the force required to move the block on different surfaces


    • Follow the Activity procedures:
  • Position the wooden block on the surface to be tested
  • Pull the block across the surface for a set distance over 5 seconds
  • Repeat the procedure three times
  • Find the average force needed to pull the block across the surface
  • Repeat the activity for other surfaces
  • Identify which surfaces decrease and increase friction force

    		After the Activity

    		Students' will complete Student Data Collection and Analysis Sheet.

    Review student results
  • As a class, discuss questions that appeared to be more challenging
  • Re-teach concepts as necessary

    		Other Downloads




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    view textbook alignment

    Subject Area:
    Science : Physical Science : Friction
    Science : Middle Grades Science : Friction

    Author:
    Texas Instruments

    Level:
    5-8

    Activity Time:
    60 Minutes

    Device:
    TI-73 Explorer™

    Apps:
    DataMate

    Software:
    TI Connect™, TI-GRAPH LINK™

    Accessories:
    CBL™/CBL 2™, Sensor - Dual Range Force, TI Connectivity Cable, TI-GRAPH LINK™ Cable, Unit-to-Unit link cables

    Other:
    This is Activity 8 from the EXPLORATIONS Book: Activities for Middle Grades Science with the CBL 2™ and TI-73.

    The following materials are required for this activity:

  • Wooden block with screw attached
  • String
  • Different surfaces
  • Meter stick/measuring tape


    • Report an issue with this activity