Unit on Kinematics

Our first major unit of the year focused on Kinematics, or motion. Initially, we talked about motion being relative to any position. For example, we could be standing still, but when we thought on a larger scale, we are moving because we are on the Earth as it spins and moves around the sun. Additionally, on a smaller scale, we could be standing still, but our bodies are in constant motion- digesting food, thinking thoughts, and many other processes. It is all relative to scale and proportion, one of our cross-cutting concepts.

After understanding this concept, we spoke about the differences between speed, velocity, and acceleration and how they interact in linear motion. During this section of the unit, we discussed free fall and the acceleration due to gravity. We also looked at last year's Space Jump by Felix Baumgartner. I have attached a portion of his jump for you to view.

Vector Examples

In the middle of this unit, we looked into the role of vectors, and finally, we proceeded to examine curved motion, or motion in two components instead of one. We explored several simulations from the phet.colorado website during this time. The simulation on Projectile Motion is included. Just click the image to open the simulation:

I think this unit was very successful, and the students enjoyed it. Kinematics forms the foundation for us to continue to build upon for the rest of the year. If you would, ask your student about this unit and post some of their ideas on what they learned/enjoyed the most!