Unit Three: Creating & Analyzing Data
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OBJECTIVE: You will learn how to use a graph that will convert angles into the linear measurement.
CONNECTION: Reading and interpreting graphs are two advanced skills that lead to data analysis. Data analysis is necessary to meet the goals of the entire unit.
By the end of this unit you will know:
- Using a clinometer to measure a stationary object
- Using a clinometer to measure a moving object
- Graphing angles
You will go through a series of three workshops to give necessary experience with tools you will be using on launch day.
Workshop 1:
A clinometer is an instrument used for measuring angles with respect to gravity. For this workshop work with a partner outside measuring the height of a school’s flagpole. Use a trundle wheel to measure 15 meters from the flagpole and then turn to face the flagpole to measure the height of the pole in degrees using the clinometer.
Workshop 2: This is the most challenging of the three workshops because you have to look through the small window of the clinometer to measure a small moving object (the tennis ball). One person should stand in the center and, similar to the flagpole activity, measure 15 meters from the center in opposite directions. Throw the tennis ball into the air and measure with a clinometer. Having two clinometers for every toss allows for greater accuracy.
Workshop 3: Learning how to graph and interpret data is an essential skill. You will be using special graphs that will convert their measurement in degrees to a linear measurement (meters). You will learn how to number the axis, plot data, and determine the height of the flagpole and thrown tennis ball. From this graph you will learn how to interpret data and make inferences based on what you see.
References and Resources
Sites For Purchase:
Full Rocketry Unit Plan For Teachers By Caroleann Del Juidice