SC.912.P.12.6

Students are introduced to the concept of angular momentum using a Predict-Observe-Explain model demonstration involving a rotating stool, small weights, and a bicycle wheel with handles. If you do not have access to these materials, website links with appropriate videos are provided in the teacher materials.

Type: Lesson Plan

The objective of this lesson is to illustrate how a common everyday experience (such as playing pool) can often provide a learning moment. In the example chosen, we use the game of pool to help explain some key concepts of physics. One of these concepts is the conservation of linear momentum since conservation laws play an extremely important role in many aspects of physics. The idea that a certain property of a system is maintained before and after something happens is quite central to many principles in physics and in the pool example, we concentrate on the conservation of linear momentum. The latter half of the video looks at angular momentum and friction, examining why certain objects roll, as opposed to slide. We do this by looking at how striking a ball with a cue stick at different locations produces different effects.

Though not required, students who have been exposed to some physics would benefit most from this video. In mathematically rigorous classes, students can concentrate on the details of vectors and conservation of linear momentum.

Type: Lesson Plan

In this lesson, we learn how insects can fly in the rain. The objective is to calculate the impact forces of raindrops on flying mosquitoes. Students will gain experience with using Newton's laws, gathering data from videos and graphs, and most importantly, the utility of making approximations. No calculus will be used in this lesson, but familiarity with torque and force balances is suggested. No calculators will be needed, but students should have pencil and paper to make estimations and, if possible, copies of the graphs provided with the lesson. Between lessons, students are recommended to discuss the assignments with their neighbors.

Type: Lesson Plan

Factors to consider when making pottery on the wheel are discussed, but not in a way that would make your head spin.

Download the CPALMS Perspectives video student note taking guide.

Type: Perspectives Video: Professional/Enthusiast

This learning video explores the mysterious physics behind boomerangs and other rapidly spinning objects. Students will get to make and throw their own boomerangs between video segments! A key idea presented is how torque causes the precession of angular momentum. One class period is required to complete this learning video, and the optimal prerequisites are a familiarity with forces, Newton's laws, vectors and time derivatives. Each student would need the following materials for boomerang construction: cardboard (roughly the size of a postcard), ruler, pencil/pen, scissors, protractor, and a stapler.

Type: Video/Audio/Animation

A 4-minute video in which an Olympic freestyle skier and a physicist discuss the physics behind freestyle skiing.

Type: Video/Audio/Animation

This learning video describes within an action orientation certain often difficult-to-understand concepts of Newtonian physics. The conservation of momentum is extended to rotational situations, and some of the results may be counter-intuitive! As Professor Lewin states in the opening segment, the prerequisite necessary for this lesson includes familiarity with the concepts of torque, angular velocity, angular momentum and moment of inertia. This interactive video lesson can easily be completed within a 55-minute class period, and the only material required is a blackboard/whiteboard to write on. During the breaks between video segments, students will be asked to think about and discuss: conditions under which angular momentum is either conserved or not conserved; examples in which the moment of inertia changes; a human ice skater and a rough estimation of her moment of inertia; as well as other topics.

Type: Video/Audio/Animation