Log drop

In math class we were studying quadratic equations (most recently - roots of quadratic equations). As it turns out, there is a quadratic relationship between distance and time of an object in free fall. In an effort to make algebra concepts more concrete and accessible to all kids, I wanted them to apply what they were learning to physics.

The challenge was for kids to indirectly measure the height of the high element log using clinometers and geometry, find the roots of a physics formula to predict how long it would take for an object to freefall to the ground, find the object’s final velocity, and then go out and collect actual data to confirm their predictions.

Kids practicing with the clinometers before going out

Kids practicing with stopwatches

Kids using the clinometers to find the height of the log

Clinometer up close

Measuring the height of the log

Young mathematicians and physicists plugging their measurements into formulas

Another young mathematician calculating the roots of a physics formula

Another young mathematician doing some label conversions

A brave volunteer climbing up to the log

Kids timing the fall of the object (soccer ball in lower right hand corner)

Another brave volunteer and drop

Brave climber triumphantly descending