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
 
Sequence of Bounces
 


Activity Overview

In this activity, students will explore the rebound heights of a ball and develop a sequence that will predict the rebound height of subsequent bounces. They will also find the total distance that the ball travels.

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 61 - 66 from the attached PDF file for your class


  • During the Activity

    Distribute the pages to your class.

    Follow the Activity procedures:
  • Run the Ranger program on the calculator
  • Release the ball beneath the CBR and sketch a plot of the Distance versus Time data
  • Record the height for 5 bounces and use lists to create a scatter plot
  • Model the heights of each bounce in terms of a geometric sequence, and graph the resulting equation
  • Write an exponential function that fits the given data, and graph it
  • Calculate the sum of the total distance traveled by the ball for the first five bounces


    After the Activity

    Students will complete the Data sheet 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 : Exponential 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 12 from the EXPLORATIONS Book:
    Modeling Motion: High School Math Activities With The CBR

    The following materials are required for this activity:

  • A racquet ball


  • Report an issue with this activity