This item is a PBL (Problem-Based Learning) activity for introductory physics relating to conservation of momentum, frictional force, and kinetic energy. This scenario involves a car crash in which a small car is struck broadside by a vehicle of more than double its mass. Students have the task of determining whether either driver engaged in reckless driving. To solve the problem, students work cooperatively to determine the coefficient of friction on the roadway, velocity of each vehicle at the time of the crash, and velocity of the vehicles prior to braking. They will use a combination of strategies: Work-Energy Theorem and kinematic equations. PBL is an instructional method designed to strengthen student competency in reasoning and problem-solving. The activities mirror real scenarios encountered by practicing scientists and engineers. Learners sift through information to separate useful from irrelevant data, locate missing information on their own, and then apply physics in finding solutions. This resource includes a printable student manual and a password-protected teacher's guide with solutions and tips for instructors.
High School — Number and Quantity
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Vector and Matrix Quantities
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Represent and model with vector quantities.
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3. (+) Solve problems involving velocity and other quantities that can be represented by vectors.
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High School — Algebra
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Seeing Structure in Expressions
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Interpret the structure of expressions
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1. Interpret expressions that represent a quantity in terms of its context ?
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a. Interpret parts of an expression, such as terms, factors, and coefficients.
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High School — Functions
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Interpreting Functions
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Interpret functions that arise in applications in terms of the context
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4. For a function that models a relationship between two quantities, interpret key features of graphs and tables in terms of the quantities, and sketch graphs showing key features given a verbal description of the relationship.?
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6. Calculate and interpret the average rate of change of a function (presented symbolically or as a table) over a specified interval. Estimate the rate of change from a graph.?
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Reading Standards for Literacy in Science and Technical Subjects 6—12
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Key Ideas and Details
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2. Determine the central ideas or conclusions of a text; summarize complex concepts, processes, or information presented in a text by paraphrasing them in simpler but still accurate terms.
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3. Follow precisely a complex multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks; analyze the specific results based on explanations in the text.
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Craft and Structure
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4. Determine the meaning of symbols, key terms, and other domain-specific words and phrases as they are used in a specific scientific or technical context relevant to grades 11—12 texts and topics.
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Integration of Knowledge and Ideas
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9. Synthesize information from a range of sources (e.g., texts, experiments, simulations) into a coherent understanding of a process, phenomenon, or concept, resolving conflicting information when possible.
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Writing Standards for Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects 6—12
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Research to Build and Present Knowledge
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9. Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
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