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A Standard Pendulum

Module by: Interactive Mathematics Program

Intent

In these activities, students return to the unit problem. They will use the tools they have developed to test ways to affect the period of a pendulum.

Mathematics

Earlier in the unit, students created a list of variables that might affect the time it takes a pendulum to swing back and forth one time. Now that they have developed an understanding of the normal distribution and such statistics as the mean and standard deviation, they will test whether changing the length of the pendulum, the weight of the bob, or the angle of the swing will lead to different periods. They will begin by gathering data using a standard “reference” pendulum. These data will provide the context for judging whether the results of a series of controlled experiments produce changes in the period that are greater than what one would expect from measurement variation alone.

Progression

Students begin by gathering and analyzing data from a standard pendulum. Then they conduct a series of experiments that isolate each of the three proposed variables to test whether any affect the period. In addition, students will revise and make presentations on the third POW and begin work on the fourth and final one of the unit.

The Standard Pendulum

Standard Pendulum Data and Decisions

Pendulum Variations

A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words

Pendulum Conclusions

POW Revision

POW 12: Twelve Bags of Gold

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