Activity Detail
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Swing Thing
 


Activity Overview

In this activity, students will construct a pendulum and create a motion plot for a swinging pendulum. They will also identify characteristics that affect a pendulum's motion.

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 45 - 48 from the attached PDF file for your class

    		•

    		During the Activity

    		Distribute the pages to your class.

    Follow the Activity procedures:
  • Tie one end of a 50 centimeter string to an empty aluminum can and make a pendulum
  • Place the CBR on a table and position the pendulum 1 meter from it
  • Aim the sensor at the can
  • Pull the can back 10 centimeters and release it so that it swings toward and away from the sensor
  • Collect data and study the distance versus time graph
  • Trace the peaks and record the pendulum's period
  • Use a funnel and add sand into the can and repeat the experiment
  • Collect data and compare the pendulum's period
  • Repeat the activity using a pendulum with a shorter string and study its effect on the pendulum's period

    		After the Activity

    		Students will collect data, analyze the results, and answer questions under the "Looking at the Results" section.

    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:
    EasyData™

    Software:
    TI Connect™

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

    Other:
    This is Activity 10 from the EXPLORATIONS Book:
    Math and Science in Motion: Activities for Middle School.

    The following materials are required for this activity:

  • Meter stick
  • String
  • Scissors
  • Empty Aluminum can
  • Funnel
  • Sand

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