Subject Area: General Math, Algebra I

Grade Level: 8-10

National Mathematics Standards:

• Demonstrate the ability to read written presentations of mathematics with understanding.
• Represent situations that involve variable quantities with equations.
• Use tables and graphs as tools to interpret expressions, equations and inequalities.
• Operate on expressions and matrices, and solve equations and inequalities.

National Technology Standards:

• Research Tools - Use content-specific tools, software and simulations (e.g., environmental probes, graphing calculators, exploratory environments, Web tools) to support learning and research.
• Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Tools - Routinely and efficiently use on-line information resources to meet needs for collaboration, research, publications, communications, and productivity.

Objective:

After reading an explanation of relative velocities from a NASA Web-based textbook, you will demonstrate an understanding of the text by applying it to solve for aircraft launch airspeed requirements.

Beginner's Guide to Aerodynamics is a "textbook" of information prepared at NASA Glenn Research Center to help you better understand how airplanes work. Click Beginner's Guide Index to access the list of slides. Open the slide called Relative Velocities (with text) and read the explanation on how relative velocities are used to calculate airspeed required for aircraft launch. Then using the information shown at Airspeed Problems, complete the questions.

Assessment:

You, or you and your partner(s), will be evaluated on the accuracy or feasibility of your answers.

Evaluation:

You will demonstrate the ability to use information found on the World Wide Web to learn how to calculate relative velocity and airspeed required for launch/takeoff.

 

Submitted by: Dan Tuttle, Lorain Admiral King High School, Lorain, Ohio