Activity

Beating the Motion Sensor

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

I bet I can cross the room without having the lights come on. Class members set up an experiment in which they try to determine what materials will mask motion detected by a sensor. Groups predict how materials will interact with light, heat, and sound. They then test their predictions by using an IR sensor and/or an ultrasonic sensor.

17 Views 4 Downloads NGSS: Designed
Instructional Ideas
  • Provide instruction on how energy reacts with materials
  • Research stealth technology and why the designs are the way they are
Classroom Considerations
  • Requires motion sensors and several types of materials
Pros
  • Includes pre-, during-, and post-activity assessment suggestions
  • PowerPoint presentation provides the directions for the class to tackle the problem
Cons
  • Ultrasonic sensors are expensive and may not be feasible to purchase
NGSS