Activity Detail
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Slippery Slope
 


Activity Overview

In this activity, students' will create Distance versus Time plots and calculate the slopes of the plots. They explore the mathematical concept of slopes and understand how slopes can be used to interpret how one physical quantity changes with respect to another.

Before the Activity

  • Connect the CBR™ to the calculator using the link cable
  • Run the Ranger program on the calculator
  • See the attached PDF file for detailed instructions for this activity
  • Print pages 23-27 from the attached PDF file for your class

    		•

    		During the Activity

    		Distribute the pages to your class.

    Follow the Activity procedures:
  • Place the CBR on a table
  • Stand 0.5 meter in front of the unit and move away from it at a slow and steady rate
  • Observe the distance versus time graph
  • Repeat the motion of moving away at a moderate pace and examine the distance versus time plot
  • Stand 4.5 meters away and move toward the unit at a slow and steady rate
  • Observe the distance versus time graph
  • Repeat the motion of moving toward the uint at a moderate pace and examine the distance versus time plot
  • Record the x- and y- coordinates and calculate the slope for each graph
  • Examine the relationship between motion and the characteristics of the slope value

    		After the Activity

    		Students' will collect data and analyze the results.

    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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    Subject Area:
    Science : Physics : Dynamics
    Science : Physical Science : Newton's Laws

    Author:
    Texas Instruments

    Level:
    5-8

    Activity Time:
    60 Minutes

    Device:
    TI-83 Plus Family, TI-84 Plus Family

    Apps:
     

    Software:
    TI Connect™

    Accessories:
    CBR™/CBR 2™, TI Connectivity Cable, Unit-to-Unit link cables

    Other:
    This is Activity 6 from the EXPLORATIONS Book: Math and Science in Motion: Activities for Middle School.

    The following materals are required for this activity:

  • Meter stick
  • Masking tape


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