Activity Overview
Students use a Force Sensor to collect weight versus number data for a collection of identical pennies and model the data using a linear equation. They will then interpret the slope as it relates to independent and dependent variables.
Before the Activity
Connect the force sensor to Channel 1 on the CBL 2™ or Vernier LabPro®
Connect the CBL 2 or LabPro to the calculator using the Unit-to-Unit cable
See the attached PDF file for detailed instructions for this activity
Print pages 8 - 16 from the attached PDF file for your class
During the Activity
Distribute the pages to your class.
Follow the Activity procedures:
Set up the force sensor and the cup for determining the weight of the pennies placed in the cup
Record the weight of 0, 8,16, 24, and 32 pennies
Examine the graph of weight versus number
Calculate the slope and intercept information using any two data points and determine the equation
Do a linear regression on all the data points and determine the regression line equation
Compare the two equations
Use the concept of intercept and slope to describe the data
After the Activity
Students will study the data and fill in the Student Data Collection and Analysis Sheet.
Review student results:
As a class, discuss questions that appeared to be more challenging
Re-teach concepts as necessary