Putting Theory into Practice 

Julie Gould

Teacher - Science

In Year 10 Science, students study Chemistry, Physics and Biology. They select one of these three as a focus area, and complete a semester-length course in it. This allows students the opportunity to explore the subject in greater detail, in preparation for making decisions around their subject choices for their VCE pathway. 

Kinematics

Kinematics is the branch of physics that describes the motion of objects without considering the forces that cause the motion. 

This study area focuses on the geometry of motion, including concepts like position, velocity, acceleration, and displacement. The Year 10 students who are currently focusing on Physics put their knowledge of kinematics into action in the F block atrium.  

Operating remote control cars, they collected data on the vehicle's motion over set distances.  They then used this collected data to calculate the velocity and acceleration of the vehicle over different sections of their motion.

The students needed to apply formulae used to calculate velocity and acceleration to describe the motion of their vehicles.

The class enjoyed being out of the classroom for a short while, and this activity was a great way for them to demonstrate, cement and apply their understanding of their lessons!