Ultrasonic Rangers and Data Loggers in Year 10

Year 10 students have started their IGCSE Physics course by investigating the properties of displacement-time graphs using ultrasonic rangers and data logging equipment. The data loggers allow displacement-time graphs to be generated in real time on students’ laptop screens so they can analyse the motion of different objects. This allows our budding physicists to work through a series of tasks that build their physics knowledge and understanding as well as building soft skills like collaboration and communication.

Task 1 = The Prediction

• Before you start your mission, predict what the shape of the displacement/time graph is going to be. Draw the graph on your group whiteboards.

Task 2 = The Missions

• Mission 1 = Use GoMotion to generate a displacement/time graph for a glider bouncing between the ends of the air track
• Mission 2 = Use GoMotion to generate a displacement/time graph for a basketball dropping from a height of 1m onto the floor
• Mission 3 = Use GoMotion to generate a displacement/time graph for a trolley rolling down the ramp away from the sensor. And again for a trolley rolling up the ramp towards the sensor
• Mission 4 = Use GoMotion to generate a displacement/time graph for a basketball rolling away from the sensor along the floor
• Mission 5 = Use GoMotion to generate a displacement/time graph for a pull-back clockwork toy away from the sensor along the floor

Task 3 = The Presentation

• Can you explain all the observed features of your graph?
• Take screen-clippings or draw out graph on the group whiteboards and present your ideas to the class.

On a lighter note: What do you call an ultrasonic ranger that tells jokes? – A “sonic” comedian!