Kinematics

This lesson comprises eight (8) master classes focusing on:

• Scalars and vectors
• Motion of an object moving in a straight line
• Motion of an object that changes its direction of movement on a plane
• Displacement, velocity and acceleration
• Equations of motion

Content:

PH11-8

How is the motion of an object moving in a straight line described and predicted?

• Describe uniform straight-line (rectilinear) motion and uniformly accelerated motion through:
  • qualitative descriptions
  • the use of scalar and vector quantities
• Conduct a practical investigation to gather data to facilitate the analysis of instantaneous and average velocity through:
  • quantitative, first-hand measurements
  • the graphical representation and interpretation of data
• Calculate the relative velocity of two objects moving along the same line using vector analysis
• Conduct practical investigations, selecting from a range of technologies, to record and analyse the motion of objects in a variety of situations in one dimension in order to measure or calculate:
  • time
  • distance
  • displacement
  • speed
  • velocity
  • acceleration
• Use mathematical modelling and graphs, selected from a range of technologies, to analyse and derive relationships between time, distance, displacement, speed, velocity and acceleration in rectilinear motion, including:
  • \( s=ut+ \frac{1}{2}at^2 \)
  • \( v=u+at \)
  • \( v^2=u^2+2as \)

How is the motion of an object that changes its direction of movement on a plane described?

• Analyse vectors in one and two dimensions to:
  • resolve a vector into two perpendicular components
  • add two perpendicular vector components to obtain a single vector
• Represent the distance and displacement of objects moving on a horizontal plane using:
  • vector addition
  • resolution of components of vectors
• Describe and analyse algebraically, graphically and with vector diagrams, the ways in which the motion of objects changes, including:
  • velocity
  • displacement
• Describe and analyse, using vector analysis, the relative positions and motions of one object relative to another object on a plane
• Analyse the relative motion of objects in two dimensions in a variety of situations, for example:
  • a boat on a flowing river relative to the bank
  • two moving cars
  • an aeroplane in a crosswind relative to the ground

PH11-2

• Assess risks, consider ethical issues and select appropriate materials and technologies when designing and planning an investigation
• Justify and evaluate the use of variables and experimental controls to ensure that a valid procedure is developed that allows for the reliable collection of data
• Evaluate and modify an investigation in response to new evidence

PH11-3

• Employ and evaluate safe work practices and manage risks
• Use appropriate technologies to ensure and evaluate accuracy
• Select and extract information from a wide range of reliable secondary sources and acknowledge them using an accepted referencing style

PH11-4

• Select qualitative and quantitative data and information and represent them using a range of formats, digital technologies and appropriate media
• Apply quantitative processes where appropriate
• Evaluate and improve the quality of data

PH11-5

• Derive trends, patterns and relationships in data and information
• Assess error, uncertainty and limitations in data
• Assess the relevance, accuracy, validity and reliability of primary and secondary data and suggest improvements to investigations

PH11-6

• Use modelling (including mathematical examples) to explain phenomena, make predictions and solve problems using evidence from primary and secondary sources
• Use scientific evidence and critical thinking skills to solve problems