✓Lesson Snapshot
Student Objective
I can calculate acceleration and interpret position-time and velocity-time graphs.
Main Activity
Use motion data from a launch, cart, rover, or rolling test object to connect graphs with physical motion.
Deliverable
Motion graph analysis
Tools / Materials
Notebook, calculator, graph paper or spreadsheet, sample motion data
1ProblemUnderstand the challenge and why it matters.
Aerospace systems often change speed during launch, motion, landing, or deployment. Engineers use graphs to understand how motion changes over time.
2ConceptLearn the engineering idea or skill.
Acceleration describes the rate of change of velocity. Position-time and velocity-time graphs can show constant motion, speeding up, slowing down, or changes in direction.
3ApplyUse the skill in a guided task.
Create or interpret a motion graph and identify where the system moves fastest, slows down, or accelerates.
4DocumentRecord your evidence and decisions.
Annotate the graph and include at least one acceleration calculation with units.
5ReviewCheck quality and identify your next step.
Your graph notes should connect the shape of the graph to the actual motion.
Lesson Resources
Use these files and shared website resources when they support today’s work.
Engineering Graph Paper
Use for graphs, calculations, motion diagrams, data displays, and design sketches.
Open ResourceMeasurement Data Sheet
Use for repeated trials, rover-distance data, timing data, accuracy measurements, and observations.
Open ResourceEngineering Resource Library
Templates, reference sheets, sketch paper, and course support files.
Open Resource