Carolina® Kinematics

In this series of 3 investigations, students first learn how to graph the motion of an object with constant velocity, then use that graph to generate an equation that describes the motion of the object. Students use their models to predict the motion of 2 objects traveling with different constant velocities and to solve the classic chase problem: determining when car B will overtake car A. Students then investigate objects moving with constant acceleration and 2-dimensional motion.

Time Requirement
Total, 225 minutes. Teacher prep, 30 minutes. Pre-lab, 30 minutes. Investigation 1, 45 minutes. Investigation 2, 45 minutes. Investigation 3, 45 minutes. Assessment, 30 minutes.

Digital Resources
Includes 1-year access to digital resources that support 3-dimensional instruction for NGSS. Digital resources may include a digital teacher manual and student guide, pre-lab activities and setup videos, phenomenon videos, simulations, and post-lab analysis and assessments.

Performance Expectations
HS-PS2-1

Crosscutting Concepts
Cause and Effect

Disciplinary Core Ideas
PS2.A: Forces and Motion

Science and Engineering Practices
Planning and Carrying Out Investigations
Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking

Learning Objectives

• Design and execute experimental procedures that investigate the motion of objects with constant velocity and constant acceleration in 1 and 2 dimensions.
• Analyze experimental data describing the motion of objects moving with constant velocity and constant acceleration in 1 and 2 dimensions.
• Develop predictive mathematical models that describe the motion of objects moving with constant velocity and constant acceleration in 1 and 2 dimensions.

Prerequisite Knowledge and Skills

• Ability to create and analyze graphs of motion
• Understanding of vector and scalar quantities
• Understanding of distance, displacement, speed, velocity, and acceleration
• Ability to solve equations using algebra and trigonometry

This kit covers the kinematics equations and vector decomposition with content that may be adapted for AP® Physics 1 and introductory college courses.

*Next Generation Science Standards® is a registered trademark of WestEd. Neither WestEd nor the lead states and partners that developed the Next Generation Science Standards were involved in the production of this product, and do not endorse it.