TENNESSEE SCIENCE UNIT

UNIT TITLE

Calculating Speed and Acceleration

AUTHOR(S)

 

Ann Campbell and Iris Trent

COURSE/

GRADE LEVEL

Honors Algebra I/Physical Science

CONTENT AREA

Math/Science

TOPIC

Math – transforming formulas/unit conversion and graphing

Science – speed and acceleration

 

TIME FRAME

 50 Minutes

NUMBER OF LESSONS

6 Lessons

TARGETED TENNESSEE

STANDARDS/
LEARNING EXPECTATIONS

Science Standard 1.0 - 

  • Distinguish between speed and velocity, given a scenario.

  • Solve application problems related to velocity & acceleration using appropriate units of measurement, given the  equations.

  • Investigate the relationship among kinetic, potential, and total energy within  a closed system.

  •  Investigate the law of conservation of energy.                                                

                                     

 

 

Math Standard

  • 2.10 – Interpret graphs that depict real world phenomena.

  • 2.11 – Model real world phenomena using functions and graphs.

  • 1.7 – Use real numbers to represent real world applications (proportionality).

  • 2.6 – Demonstrate an understanding of rates and other derived indirect measurements.

  • 3.14 – Articulate and apply algebraic properties in symbolic manipulation.

  • 2.4 – Use concepts of length, area, and volume to estimate and solve real world problems.

  •  2.5 – Apply measurement concepts and relationships in algebraic and geometric problem solving.

  •  3.6 – Communicate the meaning of variables in algebraic expressions and equations.

  •  5.1 – Apply geometric properties, formulas, and relationships to solve real world problems.

 

SUMMARY OF PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT

Students should be able to distinguish between speed and velocity, calculate velocity and acceleration, explain the relationship between kinetic and potential energy.  Students should be able to transform and evaluate formulas using the data collected during inquiry.  Students should be able to make a scale drawing.


 
OVERVIEW OF STUDENT LEARNING ACTIVITIES

  LESSON  1

The students will gain an understanding of related math and science vocabulary pertaining to unit  using  a Jeopardy game.

Introduction

 LESSON 2

The students will explore the effect of kinetic and potential energy as well as speed and acceleration in the design of roller coasters via the Internet.

How Does a Roller Coaster Work?

Incorporating Technology

  LESSON 3

The students will learn to transform formulas needed to calculate speed, velocity, and acceleration.

Transforming Formulas

  LESSON 4

The students will learn how to apply ratios as related to scales and blueprints.

Ratios and Proportions

 LESSON 5

The students will experiment the concepts of motion and energy by using the Slowest Coaster Lab.   Pictures of student roller coasters and scale drawing

Data Collection/Laboratory Investigation

 LESSON 6

The students will finalize their coaster design.

Data/Lab Investigation Continued