What Shape Is It?

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In this activity, learners determine the shape of an unseen object by bouncing a ball off the object. Learners analyze how the ball hits the object (the angle at which it strikes the surface) to figure out the path it will take. Use this activity to explain how physicists study subatomic particles (e.g. electrons, protons, neutrons).

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
5 to 10 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Several shapes that are flat on the top and bottom
  • Concealing large flat objects (e.g. cardboard, foamboard, masonite, white board, plywood)
  • Small rubber balls (e.g. from a Jacks set) or large marbles (1/2 inch diameter)
  • Large pieces of paper
  • Pencils
  • Rulers

Keywords

Subjects

  • Mathematics
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Analysis
      • Data Collection
      • Probability
    • Geometry
      • Plane Geometry
  • Physical Sciences
    • Motion and Forces
      • Newton's Laws
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Elementary Particles and Nuclear Physics
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
      • Communicating Results

Informal Categories

  • Toys

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, University of Kansas, 2006

Funding Sources:

  • University of Kansas
  • National Science Foundation, EPS-0236913
  • State of Kansas through the Kansas Technology Enterprise Corporation
  • National Science Foundation, EPP-0354836
  • National Science Foundation, EPS-90903806
  • Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation
  • Google