Motion with uniform acceleration is often considered a dull topic in elementary physics. This student perception probably arises because the emphasis is primarily placed on computing relevant quantities, rather than providing conceptual context or real-world physics applications. Fortunately, there is a type of motion with uniform acceleration that occurs in everyday life: free-fall motion. This aspect makes the topic more intriguing. In this work, we present a lesson design that incorporates a colorful demonstration and creative data processing to explore free-fall motion within a classroom setting. Our lesson begins by introducing the concept of free fall to students and subsequently guides them through an inquiry-based exploration of this motion. Students are encouraged to form hypotheses, which are then tested through a colorful experiment to determine the value of the free-fall acceleration g. We have seen that the process of acquiring new knowledge through this approach is enjoyed by our...

AAPT members receive access to The Physics Teacher and the American Journal of Physics as a member benefit. To learn more about this member benefit and becoming an AAPT member, visit the Joining AAPT page.