Physics - Simple Harmonic Motion (SHM)
From the Integrating Mathematical Problem Solving project by MEI, this series of activities explores how mechanical oscillations are important in many areas of everyday life. Sometimes they are useful, for example the motion of the suspension on a car, sometimes they are fun, for example a fairground 'pirate ship' and sometimes…
Physics - Keeping the Coffee Warm
From the Integrating Mathematical Problem Solving project by Mathematics for Education and Industry (MEI), this activity for post-16 students demonstrates that coffee cools gradually because it is hotter than room temperature and heat is lost to the room. Mixing the coffee with milk also cools it but this effect is instant. Topic…
Properties of a Particle
This activity is produced by the Maths Magic project. Properties of a Particle provides examples and ideas for A-level mathematics and physics students investigating the properties ascribed to particles. Students discuss why these properties are needed and ask are they realistic? Activities include analysing the trajectory of a tennis…
F=ma in a Lift
This activity is produced by the Maths Magic project. F=ma in a Lift provides examples and ideas for A-level mathematics and physics students investigating what happens when they are being weighed in a lift and to have a discussion about mass and weight and the difference between the two quantities. Ideally students will have access…
F=ma in a Helicopter
This activity is produced by the Maths Magic project. F=ma in a Helicopter provides examples and ideas for A-level mathematics and physics students investigating what happens to packages hanging below a helicopter. The lesson plan describes an active lesson designed to promote discussion about what happens when the helicopter is…
Can't Stand Up?
Produced by the Maths Magic project, Can’t Stand Up? provides teacher inspiration for introducing the topic of forces in an A-level mathematics or physics lesson. The plan describes two simple experiments asking a student to stand against a wall and then attempt to perform seemingly simple tasks. The tasks are designed…
Career Clips: Forces and Motion in Computer Games
From the Institute of Physics, this seven minute film showcases how an understanding of forces and motion is required to develop certain video games. It looks at the work of a company which develops computer models that ensure objects and people in video games adhere to real world laws of motion. The work is an exciting application…
4/5- Publication year: 2010 to date
- Video
The Big Bang Lesson
The lesson activities and resources for 'The Big Bang Lesson' are provided here for teachers and lecturers to use in their own schools and colleges. The lesson outline includes links to many of the presentation slides used by Professor Cox in his lesson, and also to clips from Professor Cox's STAR lecture, which…
- 5/5
- Publication year: 2010 to date
- Teacher guidance
Measuring the Thrust of a Balloon Powered Car
This activity from BLOODHOUND SSC illustrates the forces acting on BLOODHOUND SSC by calculating the thrust of a balloon powered car. The resource explores thrust as a concept, tying in with Newton’s Laws of Motion. Students: • Build a balloon car • Conduct speed-time experiments using the balloon car •…
Bloodhound SSC Mathematical Model
From BLOODHOUND SSC, this resource demonstrates how to progress from a simple mathematical model to a more complex and more useful model to predict how fast the rocket car will go. The resource applies Newton's three laws of motion to BLOODHOUND and uses physics and mathematics to explain what is needed to make it go faster.
Build a Rocket Car
In this activity, from BLOODHOUND SSC, students build a model rocket car and explore the effect of drag on its performance. Maths, science and technology departments could all be involved. The design and build could be followed by timing and analysis experiments. Model rocket motors are the ideal way to propel model cars across…
Investigating Motion
In this resource, from BLOODHOUND SSC, students answer sets of questions about acceleration, velocity and motion in relation to BLOODHOUND SSC. They also investigate 'g force' and how free falling or lack of gravity affects acceleration. The students then go on to investigate the physiological effects of motion, what happens…
Static Testing of a Model Rocket
This investigation, from BLOODHOUND SSC, uses a datalogger and force sensor to measure the thrust of a model rocket engine. The results can be analysed to predict the acceleration and speed of a model vehicle. The resource includes detailed instructions on how to conduct the experiment, including health and safety equipment and considerations.
Energy Manager
Jo Carris is an energy manager, working on the London 2012 Olympic Games. This Department for Education clip could be used when teaching about sustainable development or energy efficiency. It also demonstrates the exciting careers that require skills in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM). Jo describes her job…
Energy Analyst
Rebecca Beresford is an energy analyst at EDF Energy. This Department for Education clip could be useful when teaching about sustainable development, enery efficiency or climate change. It also illustrates a career that requires an understanding of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Rebecca describes her…
- 4/5
- Publication year: 2010 to date
- Video
Digital Designer
Simon Cam is a digital designer, working on interactive video production for an advertising agency. This Department for Education clip shows the importance of science and mathematics in a range of creative industries. Simon works with film, special effects and 3D graphics, to develop a range of visual effects for the creative…