Explicit physics instruction
This investigation measures period and repeatability.
Use a small safe pendulum or approved oscillator simulation. Measure period over multiple cycles and compare repeated trials.
Time several cycles at once to reduce reaction-time error per cycle; preserve raw timing data.
Core relation: f=1/T; for ideal SHM, restoring force ∝ −displacement.
Worked example
If 10 cycles take 12.4 s, T=1.24 s. Repeat trials can be averaged and spread reported.
Guided question
Why time many cycles instead of one?
Independent work
- Solve three period/frequency or graph questions.
- Annotate one oscillation graph.
- State one ideal-model limitation.
Investigation / Data Lab
Use a small safe pendulum or approved oscillator simulation. Measure period over multiple cycles and compare repeated trials.
Preserve raw cycle counts/times, calculated period/frequency, trial spread, uncertainty, and one revision.
Misconception check
Greater amplitude does not automatically mean greater frequency in the ideal small-amplitude SHM model.
Formative check
If T doubles, what happens to f?
Reveal response
Frequency halves because f=1/T.
Mentor evidence conference
Ask Archaemenes to audit cycle counting, graph phase, and ideal-model assumptions.
Teacher guidance
Foundation: Calculate T and f.
Core: Interpret SHM graphs and energy shifts.
Extended: Quantify damping or uncertainty from repeated trials.