Help me give my students Rotational Motion lab stations to collect and analyze components of circular motion and rotational dynamics!
FULLY FUNDED! Ms. Roe's classroom raised $480
This project is fully funded
My Project
Physics is about determining the ways in which objects interact with each other, and using mathematics to model, analyze, and predict the results of those interactions. During our study of linear motion, students are able to apply their real-world experiences and "common sense" to make accurate predictions about how an object's motion will or will not change. However, real-world experiences with circular/rotational motion are often limited or are misleading and lead to many misconceptions.
My AP Physics students have shown talent in mathematical and graphical modeling, as well as the ability to connect real-world motion to kinematics and Newton's Laws for linear motion but need hands-on experiences to observe and analyze circular and rotational motion.
We plan to build a class set of whirlygig devices that use a falling mass to spin a t-shaped PVC device for students to collect data to determine the effects of and mathematical relationships between balanced vs balanced masses, radius, angular velocity, linear velocity, torque, and angular momentum. These devices will give them a concrete foundation of knowledge on which they can build a stronger understanding of more complex motion.
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Roe and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.