Acceleration introduces students to the anchor phenomenon of a collision between objects. Students use tracks to experiment with constant speeds and accelerating rates. They analyze data to determine the acceleration of gravity on Earth.
Speed and Velocity this video explains the difference between speed and velocity and goes into calculating velocity. It also explains why speed is always positive while velocity can be negative and when it would be negative.
Acceleration and Kinematic Equations this follows the previous video and goes into greater detail - it has a good explanation of deceleration.
Calculating Relative Velocity this video explains how perspective effects velocity and how to calculate.
In Force of Gravity, students consider the phenomenon of weight, which is affected by external forces, specifically gravity. They learn about the acceleration of gravity on Earth and other locations. Students consider the relationship between force, mass, and acceleration.
Galileo’s Falling Bodies this goes with the article in Foss titled Gravity: It’s the Law
In Energy and Collisions, students make detailed observations around the phenomena of various collisions. They learn about kinetic-energy transfers during collisions by colliding marbles and cubes under various circumstances to collect data. In a card game, students determine the effect of mass and speed on kinetic energy during collisions
In Collision Engineering, students return to the anchor phenomenon of collisions through an engineering challenge. They learn how time affects force in a collision, then apply physics concepts to develop a protective helmet for a model head.