Physics Unit 1

Big Idea:

Motion can be predicted, described and analyzed based on the laws governing motion.

Student Expectations:

Priority TEKS

P.4(A) generate and interpret graphs and charts describing different types of motion, including investigations using [the use of] real-time technology such as motion detectors or photogates

Focus TEKS

P.2(E) demonstrate the use of course apparatus, equipment, techniques, and procedures, including multimeters (current, voltage, resistance), balances, batteries, dynamics demonstration equipment, collision apparatus, lab masses, magnets, plane mirrors, convex lenses, stopwatches, trajectory apparatus, graph paper, magnetic compasses, protractors, metric rulers, spring scales, thermometers, slinky springs, and/or other equipment and materials that will produce the same results;

P.4(B) describe and analyze motion in one dimension using equations and graphical vector addition with the concepts of distance, displacement, speed, average velocity, instantaneous velocity, frames of reference, and acceleration;

Ongoing TEKS

P.1(A) demonstrate safe practices during laboratory and field investigations; and

P.1(B) demonstrate an understanding of the use and conservation of resources and the proper disposal or recycling of materials.

P.2(A) know the definition of science and understand that it has limitations, as specified in subsection (b)(2) of this section;

P.2(B) know that scientific hypotheses are tentative and testable statements that must be capable of being supported or not supported by observational evidence.

P.2(C) know that scientific theories are based on natural and physical phenomena and are capable of being tested by multiple independent researchers. Unlike hypotheses, scientific theories are well established and highly reliable explanations, but may be subject to change;

P.2(D) design and implement investigative procedures, including making observations, asking well defined questions, formulating testable hypotheses, identifying variables, selecting appropriate equipment and technology, evaluating numerical answers for reasonableness, and identifying causes and effects of uncertainties in measured data;

P.2(F) use a wide variety of additional course apparatus, equipment, techniques, materials, and procedures as appropriate such as ripple tank with wave generator, wave motion rope, tuning forks, hand-held visual spectroscopes, discharge tubes with power supply (H, He, Ne, Ar), electromagnetic spectrum charts, laser pointers, micrometer, caliper, computer, data acquisition probes, scientific calculators, graphing technology, electrostatic kits, electroscope, inclined plane, optics bench, optics kit, polarized film, prisms, pulley with table clamp, motion detectors, photogates, friction blocks, ballistic carts or equivalent, resonance tube, stroboscope, resistors, copper wire, switches, iron filings, and/or other equipment and materials that will produce the same results;

P.2(G) make measurements with accuracy and precision and record data using scientific notation and International System (SI) units;

P.2(H) organize, evaluate, and make inferences from data, including the use of tables, charts, and graphs;

P.2(I) communicate valid conclusions supported by the data through various methods such as lab reports, labeled drawings, graphic organizers, journals, summaries, oral reports, and technology-based reports; and

P.2(J) express relationships among physical variables quantitatively, including the use of graphs, charts, and equations.

P.3(A) analyze, evaluate, and critique scientific explanations by using empirical evidence, logical reasoning, and experimental and observational testing, so as to encourage critical thinking by the student;

P.3(B) communicate and apply scientific information extracted from various sources such as current events, news reports, published journal articles, and marketing materials;

P.3(C) explain the impacts of the scientific contributions of a variety of historical and contemporary scientists on scientific thought and society;

P.3(D) research and describe the connections between physics and future careers; and

P.3(E) express, manipulate, and interpret relationships symbolically in accordance with accepted theories to make predictions and solve problems mathematically;

Student Learning Targets:

• I will define, compare, and contrast kinematic terms:
  • Reference point
  • Distance
  • Displacement
  • Scalar
  • Direction
  • Position
  • Vector
  • Time interval
  • Average speed
  • Average velocity
• I will describe the difference between precision and accuracy.
• I will express quantities in proper units and convert quantities when necessary.
• I will construct a graph using good graphing technique given a set of data.
• I will calculate the slope of a linear relationship.
• I will derive an equation from a linear motion graph relating position, velocity and time using y=mx + b:
  • Identify the variable on the y and x axis of the graphs
  • Identify the variable represented by the slope, m.
  • Identify the variable represented by the y-intercept, b.
• I will describe the shape of a position versus time graph for an object moving with constant velocity and changing velocity.
  • Describe the displacement:
    • Towards or away from the reference point
    • Positive or negative
    • Standing still
  • Describe the velocity:
    • Constant: zero or non-zero
    • Changing: increasing or decreasing
    • Positive or negative
• I will analyze a position versus time graph for the following quantities:
  • The initial position of an object.
  • The position of an object at any given time.
  • The speed, velocity, and instantaneous velocity of an object for any given time interval.
  • The direction of an object’s motion.
  • Regions of constant and changing motion.
• I will use appropriate units for all calculations.
• I will solve constant velocity kinematic problems.
• I will conduct data collect, data analysis and inferences, and develop well-defined conclusions while demonstrating proper and safe use and care of scientific equipment.

Essential Questions:

• How can the motion of an object be described?

Extra Information:

Adopted Textbook: Conceptual Physics - Pearson, Prentice Hall

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