ELABORATION
This is a lab activity which may take 1-2 class periods, depending on the length(time) of the class.
Students should work in pairs and record all information.
On the second day, students will use the Microsoft Excel Program to graph their results. Excel will allow them to customize graphs using computer technology. If Excel in not available, students should create their graphs manually. Each group should present their graph to the class.
Students will present an oral report on their findings using the graphs they created.
Lab
How can reaction time be measured?
Materials: penny/metric ruler
Procedure:
Part A
1. Hold your right are out with the palm down. Put a penny on the center of the back of your hand.
2. Slowly tilt your hand to the side so that the penny slides off. Try to catch the penny with your right hand.
3. Repeat step 2 nine more times. Record how many times you can catch the penny
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 with our left hand.
Part B
1. Work with a partner. Hold your hand out with the palm up.
2. Have your partner hold a penny about 0.5m above the palm of your hand.
3. When your partner drops the penny try to move your hand out of the way before the penny can hit it.
4. Ask your partner to hold the penny at different distances from your hand. Repeat steps 3 for each distance.
Questions:
1. What was the response in each part of the activity?
2. What is the variable in each part of the activity?
3. Explain how reaction time can be measured.