Numeracy - Scale Modelling and Time in Space

Activity

Aimed at stage 5 students, this mathematical modelling exercise allows students to visualise the distances and time taken to travel to the moon and to the star Sirius. This numeracy activity will be highly engaging for students, as it allows them to learn to perform simple scale and distance calculations but also model it, bringing an abstract concept closer to home for them. This activity would best be done in pre-selected groups with students of varying ability. This way, students who are more confident with the mathematics and calculations aspect of the investigation will be able to demonstrate this to the students who are weaker at maths.

Syllabus Dot Points Covered

ES1

c. use appropriate scales to describe differences in sizes of and distances between structures making up the universe

WS6 Students conduct investigations by:

a. individually and collaboratively using appropriate investigation methods, including fieldwork and laboratory experimentation, to collect reliable data (

d. using appropriate units for measuring physical quantities

Activity Link from Science Works (museums Victoria), pages 1-2. 

Numeracy: Newton's Second Law Simulation

Activity

Stage 5 students will use this simulation as a basis for calculations to invesigate Newton's Second law of Motion: F = m x a. Students will use the simulation to compare the effects of different forces on the same mass and the impact this has on the acceleration of the skateboard. Using the equation, students will be able to understand the relationship from a numerical point of view. More advanced students who are able to complete the task faster can then repeat the calculations, changing the mass and making predictions about its effect using the equation. Students who struggle with mathematical concepts will be able to do the work without the calculations, visualising Newton's second law.

Syllabus Dot points Covered

PW2 a. describe qualitatively the relationship between force, mass and acceleration

c. relate acceleration qualitatively to a change in speed and/or direction as a result of a net force

d. analyse qualitatively everyday situations involving motion in terms of Newton's laws

Additional Content

• relate quantitatively, force, mass and acceleration, and apply to everyday situations

WS4 Students question and predict by:

b. predicting outcomes based on observations and scientific knowledge

WS6 Students conduct investigations by:

d. using appropriate units for measuring physical quantities

e. reporting data and information, evidence and findings, with accuracy and honesty

WS7.1 Students process data and information by:

c. accessing data and information by using a range of appropriate digital technologies

d. applying numerical procedures and mathematical concepts and using digital technologies, where appropriate

WS7.2 Students analyse data and information by:

b. describing relationships between variables

Activity Link

Students will use this PhET simulation (motion) to complete their calculations, using four different forces of their own choosing. 

Numeracy: Graphing and Radioactivity

Activity

This activity is a worksheet to teach half-life to students as well as recalling graphing and numeracy skills. This activity also has a very small research component, allowing students to have an element of choice and adding interest to the task. The worksheet itself is very highly scaffolded, so students will hopefully not become confused whilst working through the sheet. This worksheet will also be done in class, so students who are struggling will have a chance to ask for help. If some students finish their work early, they will be encouraged to pick another element and graph that, so they will be able to conclude for themselves that radioactive decay follows the same pattern, regardless of the length of an isotope's half-life.

Syllabus Dot points Covered

CW1 d. identify that natural radioactivity arises from the decay of nuclei in atoms, releasing particles and energy

WS7.1 Students process data and information by:

a. selecting and using a variety of methods to organise data and information including diagrams, tables, models, spreadsheets and databases

Activity Sheet

Students will access information from http://www.iem-inc.com/information/tools/half-lives  

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