Explore the path of a projectile

Make a prediction and investigate

Choose one launch control and compare two settings. Keep the other launch conditions fixed and sketch each path.

Controls in the actual lab

• Angle: starts at 30 °; available range 15–75 °.
• Speed: starts at 20 m/s; available range 12–28 m/s.

Range depends on speed and angle. 45° flies farthest on flat ground. 30° and 60° land equally far.

Discuss the evidence

Describe separately what changed about height, flight, and landing position. Do not assume one change improves every outcome.

Try it beyond the activity

Draw a new launch prediction before testing it. Explain which earlier observation supports your prediction.

Record your thinking

Sources and limits

This companion uses the published Projectiles activity and its learning guidance. Review any original sources linked there. It is a discussion plan by Lesson Worlds, not a scored assessment, a standards certification, or evidence of learning gains.

Use this activity with a learner

Families and educators · choose by prior knowledge

Learning goal: Range depends on speed and angle. 45° flies farthest on flat ground. 30° and 60° land equally far.

Before you begin: Read the controls for Angle, Speed. Make one prediction before changing a setting.

Check understanding: Ask for one observation, the evidence that supports it, and a question to investigate next.

A simulation simplifies the real world. Explain which conditions stayed fixed; a successful run alone does not demonstrate mastery.

Activity and guide by Lesson Worlds. About the platform.