Activity Detail
If you are using a TI-73, TI-83, TI-84 or TI-89, there may be particular math or science applications you will need to download to use certain activities. If you are using TI-Nspire technology, please update your TI-Nspire handheld operating system or computer software to view the latest activities. The latest TI-Nspire operating system was released in June 2009.
Browse by Subject Submit Activity Saved Activities Advanced Search
  


add to saved activities



print this activity
 
Stretching a Penny
 


Activity Overview

In this activity, students investigate how a spring stretches when different weights pull on it. They relate the stretch of the spring directly to the weight and vice-versa.

Before the Activity

  • Connect the calculator to the CBR 2™
  • Install the TI Connect™ software to analyze data on the computer
  • See the attached PDF file for detailed instructions for this activity
  • Print pages 1 - 4 from the attached PDF file for your class

    		•

    		During the Activity

    		Distribute the pages 1 - 4 to your class.

    Follow the Activity procedures:
  • Run the Ranger program
  • Attach the plate to the spring and hang the spring from a ring stand
  • Position the CBR face up under the plate
  • Record the distance between the CBR and the plate
  • Add 5 pennies to the plate and measure the distance between the plate and the CBR
  • Repeat the above step until a total of 20 pennies have been added to the plate
  • Record the distance data and calculate the amount of stretch per penny
  • Add a handful of pennies to the plate, measure the distance, and predict the number of pennies
  • Count the pennies and compare with the predicted value
  • For a given number of pennies predict the stretch
  • Determine the proportionality constant for this variation

    		After the Activity

    		Students will complete the Data Collection table and answer questions listed in it.

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

    		Other Downloads




    view standards alignment
    view textbook alignment

    Subject Area:
    Math : Algebra I : Linear Equations and Functions

    Author:
    Texas Instruments

    Level:
    9-12

    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 1 from the EXPLORATIONS Book:
    Modeling Motion: High School Math Activities With The CBR

    The following materials are required for this activity:

  • Handful of pennies
  • Paper bowl or plate
  • Ring stand or hook
  • Spring or slinky


    • Report an issue with this activity