Y7 Stretching

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Patterns of stretching.

Aims:    Manipulation, careful measurement, repeat readings and graph drawing.

Outcomes:     Students will have produced a set of results and drawn a graph from their readings. Some will have made a prediction and tested it.

Needs:    Springs, 100g masses, sellotape, card, scissors, 0.5 metre rulers.

Assessment:     By inspection of results and marking of graphs. Level 3 - need to be instructed exactly how to record their results & unable to draw graph without step by step supervision; level 4 - need some suggestions as to how to organise results and draw the graph; Organise results and draw the graph with minimal help.

Differentiation:    Extend faster students by repeating exp. with elastic band. Have ready-made table of results and pre-drawn graph scales for less able.

Links:    Previous work on forces, KS2 stretching things, subsequent work on mass and weight - understanding how the Newton meter works, balanced forces.

Demo how to set up the experiment and how to measure the extension of the spring. Add up to 400g, including the hanger. Students to suggest how to record the results. Q - how can you make sure each reading is correct? Introduce idea of making a repeat reading and averaging the results. Go through how to draw the line graph (OHT).  Risks: safety goggles in case spring suddenly twangs, work near centre of benches so that if masses fall, toes are safe.

Draw graph, make prediction about how far the spring would stretch with another 100g of mass on it. Check prediction.

Closing questions - does a spring stretch evenly? Is the stretch predictable? Improvements?

Follow up or homework - a formal report to develop literacy skills.