PhET Simulation: Period of a Pendulum

In completing this HTML5 web-based inquiry lab activity your students will gain a complete understanding of how mass, length, displacement and gravitational acceleration affect the period of a pendulum. I have done this activity with my students many times and they always find it fun and engaging. The best part is that your students won’t even know they are learning as they complete the inquiry-based laboratory assignment sheet that is included.

This HTML5 inquiry lab can be run from most cellphones, tablets and computers. Nothing to download or install. The pendulum simulation will guide students as they collect data, analyze results and formulate conclusions on what factors affect the period of a pendulum. PhET simulations incorporate research based, student centered activities that are fun and easy to use. All of the PhET simulations are available from their website: PhET Interactive Simulations.

The product includes the pendulum lab sheets and answer key as well as a Getting Started Teachers Guide.