Activity Detail
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Swinging Along
 


Activity Overview

Students model the data from the motion of a pendulum by a periodic function. They relate its parameters to the time for one period, the distance it is pulled back, and its distance from the motion detector.

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 73 - 76 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
  • Mark the at-rest position of the pendulum with masking tape
  • Pull the pendulum toward the CBR, release it, and begin collecting data
  • Study the graph of distance versus time
  • Measure and record the distance in meters from the CBR to the pendulum?s rest position
  • Measure and record the distance in meters from the pendulum?s rest position to the point it was pulled back
  • Find the average time for one cycle
  • Calculate the amplitude, vertical shift, and the period

    		After the Activity

    		Students will complete the data sheet and answer questions listed on pages 75 ? 76.

    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:
    Math : Precalculus / Trig : Trigonometric Functions

    Author:
    Texas Instruments

    Level:
    9-12

    Activity Time:
    60 Minutes

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

    Apps:
    TI-CBL™/CBR™ App

    Software:
    TI Connect™

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

    Other:
    This is Activity 14 from the EXPLORATIONS Book:
    Modeling Motion: High School Math Activities With The CBR

    The following materials are required for this activity:

  • Pendulum (or a yo-yo)
  • Meter stick
  • Masking tape
  • Stopwatch


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