Subject Area: Physics

Grade Level: 11 - 12

National Standards:

Mathematics

• Demonstrate the ability to read written presentations of mathematics with understanding.
• Apply integrated mathematical problem-solving strategies to solve problems outside of mathematics.

Science

• Explore change, constancy, and measurement.
• Explore motion and forces.

Technology

• 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.

Objectives:

• After reading an explanation from a NASA Web-based textbook, you will demonstrate an understanding of the text by applying it to calculating drag of both full-sized and model gliders.
• You will use spreadsheets for mathematical calculations.
• You will determine the value of drag using models to predict what will happen to full-sized gliders at different glide angles.

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 available at Beginner's Guide to Aerodynamics. Open the slides called Glider Trajectory Problem and the Vector Balance of Forces for a Glider from the series and read the explanation. Then using the information, you will complete a set of problems designed to demonstrate your ability to calculate drag.

Click Drag Problem Set to begin the problems.

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 drag.

Submitted by:

Michael Burich, Shaw High School, East Cleveland, Ohio

E-mail: burich@juno.com

Index

Activity

Worksheet

Answers