Relevant National Teaching Standards
Grade 5-8:
Physical Science
(Motions and Forces),
Science and Technology
(Understandings about Science and Technology)
Grade 9-12:
Physical Science
(Conservation of Energy and Increase in Disorder),
Life Science
(Understandings about Science and Technology)
Science and Technology
(Understandings about Science and Technology)
Synopsis: Olympians continually search for ways to improve their athletic performance, trying to improve technique, mental preparation and rest. How do elite athletes use science to maximize their performance? How does exercise affect the body? And what do we know about the original Olympic games?
Find
the article: Sport Science
Discussion
Questions
1. How is physics involved in sports? Which laws of physics apply to biomechanics, and why?
2. How can the mind affect the body, especially in terms of health and sports performance? How do athletes use the mind to influence their performance?
Lesson
Plans/Activities
1. Deluge of luge physics! Excellent online lesson explains the physics and biomechanics of skating and luge. Includes great graphics to explain concepts and formulas. Recommended for grades 10-12.
2. Hands-on arm activity! Students study the biomechanics of joints and build a model of a human arm. Recommended for grades 9-12, although younger students may also enjoy this activity.
3. Walk in the shoes of a sport scientist!Using research, design a basketball shoe fit for the pros. Choose from a variety of research methods and activities. Recommended for grades 7-12.
Take the: Quiz
