Find heights by measuring time. Teams collect data to determine the height that a tennis ball is thrown. Classmates measure the height of the initial release of the ball and how long it stays aloft. Using a projectile motion equation, pupils calculate the initial velocity and the maximum height of the ball.

Concepts

projectile motion, parabolas, quadratic applications, quadratic functions, graphing quadratics, data collection, vertex, maximums

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Additional Tags

math

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Instructional Ideas

• Lead a discussion on whether the graph is the plot of the balls' trajectory
• Find a projectile motion calculator online and confirm the heights

Classroom Considerations

• Requires going outside or into a place with a high ceiling

Pros

• Provides suggestions for possible accommodations
• Includes a benchmark paper

Cons

• None

Common Core

MP4 MP6 HSA-CED.A.2 HSF-IF.B.4 HSF-IF.C.7.a HSF-BF.A.1.a