Hit the Target! Exploration of Projectile Motion
The purpose of this unit plan is to engage students in exploring projectile motion through interactive simulations and hands-on investigations, allowing them to manipulate key variables, analyze their effects on trajectory, and communicate their findings using precise scientific language.
Overview
Students investigate projectile motion, beginning with real and simulated videos and questions about what affects how far and how high a projectile travels. They then use an online projectile simulator to vary angle, speed, gravity, and mass, run repeated trials, and record patterns on a worksheet. A class discussion links the results to Newton's second law, horizontal and vertical velocity components, and the 45 degree angle for maximum range. In the culminating challenge, students act as test officers and use the PhET Projectile Motion simulation to choose the launch angle and initial speed that hit a target 60 meters away, then present their strategy in a five-slide presentation.
Lesson Objectives
- Explore projectile motion through simulations.
- Manipulate variables (angle, velocity, gravity, mass) to observe their effect on a projectile's trajectory.
- Design, conduct, and analyze trials to determine the most effective method for hitting a target with precision.
- Communicate their process and findings using appropriate scientific terminology.
Standards
NGSS · 4
- HS-PS2-1Analyze data to support the claim that Newton’s second law of motion describes the mathematical relationship among the net force on a macroscopic object, its mass, and its acceleration
- HS-PS2-2Use mathematical representations of phenomena to describe explanations for how the total momentum of a system of objects is conserved when there is no net force on the system.
- HS-ETS1-3Evaluate a solution to a complex real-world problem based on prioritized criteria and trade-offs that account for a range of constraints, including cost, safety, reliability, and aesthetics as well as possible social, cultural, and environmental impacts.
- HS-ESS3-6Use a computational representation to illustrate the relationships among Earth systems and how those relationships are being modified due to human activity
CCSS Math · 1
- HSA-CED.A.2Create equations in two or more variables to represent relationships between quantities; graph equations on coordinate axes with labels and scales.
CCSS ELA · 2
- SL.9-10.4Present information, findings, and supporting evidence, concisely, and logically (using appropriate eye contact, adequate volume, and clear pronunciation) such that listeners can follow the line of reasoning and the organization, development, substance, and style are appropriate to the purpose
- RST.9-10Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of science and technical texts, attending to the precise details of explanations or descriptions.