Education Technology


Physical Science: Balancing Act (MG)

by Texas Instruments - Simulation Lesson

Objectives

  • Students will be able to identify a lever and fulcrum.
  • Students will solve one-step equations for balancing different masses on a teeter-totter balance.

Vocabulary

  • force
  • lever
  • fulcrum
  • simple machine
  • imbalance
  • mass

About the Lesson

Adapted from a PhET™ simulation, this less involves students using TI-Nspire technology to simulate, observe and manipulate the variables of lever and fulcrum as well as force vectors and torque.

 

As a result, students will:

  • Describe a lever and fulcrum
  • Determine the positions for different mass arrangements to balance on the teeter-totter.
PhET is a trademark owned by the Regents of the University of Colorado, which was not involved in the production of, nor do they endorse this product.