Fermilab Education Office: Classroom Presentations

Fermilab scientists guide a discussion and exploration of the impact physics has in a variety of sports. Explore the why's and how's of better equipment and techniques or learn how to analyze swings, strokes and more. Inspired by the Active Physics series and other materials.

NGSS DCIs addressed: Topic relates to force and motion using topic of interest to students.

Length of time: 40-60 minutes

Room preference: Gymnasium, Auditorium or All-purpose room. Since this presentation utilizes sports equipment and student volunteers, a room that is large enough for some sports related activity and a hard surface floor is best. (Make plans by e-mail directly with your volunteer presenter.)

To help make a Physics of Sports presentation run smoothly, we ask the following:

1. Make sure the scientist has exact directions to your school and any parking and delivery information.
2. Please review basic concepts with the students before the presentation. They will understand more if they have these concepts fresh in mind. The classroom presentations are intended to enhance your classroom curriculum.
3. This presentation is designed for students in 4th-12th grades. Please let the scientists know of any specific related learning objectives you wish to address.
4. The presentation is intended for one or two classes. It is most effective if there are no more than 50-60 students in the audience. We want students to be engaged. Questions are encouraged.
5. If you have scheduled multiple presentations, we request that we stay in the same room for all presentations. It is time consuming to move the set up from room to room. We would like 10-15 minutes between presentations if possible. Two presentations would be a maximum request.
6. Set up takes 30-45 minutes.
7. We will need one medium-sized table in the front of the room with an electrical outlet nearby.
8. Some presentations require AV equipment such as LCD or overhead projectors.
9. A wireless microphone and sound system may be helpful to ensure that everyone can hear.
10. Teachers and/or aides should remain with students to assist with student engagement and management while you all enjoy the presentation!