High School Inquiry Lessons
“Universal Circular Motion” by Cecilia Liang
Universal Circular Motion Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
HS-PS2-1. Analyze 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-ESS3-4. Evaluate or refine a technological solution that reduces impacts of human activities on natural systems.
Materials needed
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Doc cam Laptop Guided notes Key Points: Uniform Circular Motion (Handout 1) Practice: Uniform Circular Motion (Handout 2) Exit Ticket: Uniform Circular Motion (Handout 3) Phenomenon
Wind turbines pose a unique and appropriate way to teach circular motion. We will investigate centripetal acceleration and tangential velocity with them. In Germany, wildlife conservation organizations say turbines pose a threat to birds and bats with their rotating blades. This conflict between the development of renewable energy sources and the conservation of endangered species is a “greengreen dilemma” that is much discussed. Engage
Students will watch a short introduction video about what wind power is and how it works.
Explore
Students will come up with examples of objects which move in circles, then discuss them as a class.
Explain
Teacher will review the key points and formulas associated with uniform circular motion, including those for centripetal acceleration and tangential velocity. Students will explain how their examples show the formulas in action, while solving and checking their answers.
Elaborate
Understand: The conflict between the development of renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines, that may pose a threat to birds and bats with their rotating blades and the conservation of endangered species is a “green-green dilemma.” Assess: Students will research a green-green dilemma in their community/city/state. Act: Students will create a poster paralleling Germany‘s green-green dilemma they learned about in class, with a dilemma (green-green or not) that they explored within their community. Students will present their poster in class to their classmates, the whole school, and/or community representatives.
Evaluate
Students will assess understanding with an exit ticket.
Fall Newsletter | 2020 | 69
