A Beautiful Pictorial Approach to Explore Free-Fall Motion in a Classroom

• Yajun Wei ^[1] ; Dawei Zhang ^[2] ; Qingsong Zou ^[2] ; Zhiquan Xiong ^[3]
  1. [1] Guangzhou University

     Guangzhou University

     China

     
  2. [2] Zhuhai No. 1 High School, Zhuhai, China
  3. [3] Zhuhai Institute of Educational Research, Zhuhai, China

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• Localización: The Physics Teacher, ISSN 0031-921X, Vol. 62, Nº. 7, 2024, págs. 567-570
• Idioma: inglés
• Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
• Resumen

  • Motion with uniform acceleration is often considered a dull topic in elementary physics. This student perception probably arises because the emphasis is primarily placed on computing relevant quantities, rather than providing conceptual context or real-world physics applications. Fortunately, there is a type of motion with uniform acceleration that occurs in everyday life: free-fall motion. This aspect makes the topic more intriguing. In this work, we present a lesson design that incorporates a colorful demonstration and creative data processing to explore free-fall motion within a classroom setting. Our lesson begins by introducing the concept of free fall to students and subsequently guides them through an inquiry-based exploration of this motion. Students are encouraged to form hypotheses, which are then tested through a colorful experiment to determine the value of the free-fall acceleration g. We have seen that the process of acquiring new knowledge through this approach is enjoyed by our students.