Build a deep conceptual understanding of free fall and algebraic problem solving skills using this self-checking free-fall activity! This free-fall activity can be completed individually, in partners, or as a group. Students will solve the free fall and acceleration problems, then find their solution.  I find that breaking the class into groups of 2 students works best to help encourage conversations that break down common misconceptions about free fall motion. An optional recording sheet is included as well as an answer key with my step-by-step work shown.

This is created to be used while teaching free fall in High School Physics. Traditionally, free fall is taught during 1D Kinematics. However, I now teach free fall at the beginning of projectile motion AFTER Newton’s Laws to help shorten my 1D Kinematics unit. I have used this activity in both Conceptual Physics and Pre-AP Physics. 

✩ HOW THIS ASSIGNMENT WORKS  ✩

• Print one copy of the Free-Fall Scavenger Hunt and a recording sheet for students (or they can use their journal).
• Students can start at any station, answer the question by finding the net force, and then find their answer to determine which question they solve next.
• When students return to where they started, they are finished. 
• Since this assignment is self-checking, the teacher is free to float around the room and help students who need extra support. 

✩ WHAT STUDENTS NEED TO KNOW BEFORE THEY BEGIN ✩

• Free fall means only gravity (no air resistance) is acting on an object.
• Acceleration due to gravity is -9.8 m/s/s.
• How to calculate the velocity and distance of an object in free fall
• Position, velocity, and acceleration graph for an object in free fall.

✩ Easy Steps to Take AFTER Purchasing ✩

1. Download the file.
2. Print out one copy of the 16 stations & hand them out in your room, the hallway, or outside.
3. Copy a recording sheet for each student or have them write in their journals. 
4. Have fun floating around the room and talking about free fall!

✩ Projectile Motion Unit Suggested Pacing ✩

Part 1: Horizontal and Vertical Projectile Motion

Day 1: Introduction to Projectile Motion Stations

Day 2: What is a Projectile? Notes

Day 3: Vertical Projectiles Notes and  Free Fall Scavenger Hunt

Day 4: Horizontal Projectile Motion Lesson Notes & Horizontal Projectiles Color By Number

Day 5: Horizontal & Vertical Projectiles Lab (using your schools lab equipment)

Day 6: Horizontal & Vertical Projectiles Quiz

Part 2: Projectile Motion at an Angle - Optional Add On

Day 7: Projectile Motion with Angles Notes 

Day 8: Projectile Motions Task Cards

Day 9: Projectile Motion Review

Day 10: Projectile Motion Test

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• High School Physics Activities - GROWING Mega Bundle of Physics Resources 

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