Biomechanics of a jump: video and graphs
Secondary level - 13-16 years old - Duration: 2 sessions of 45 min.
Introductory Question
If a basketball player and a gymnast jump with full force, who jumps higher and why? What invisible factors determine the success of their jump?
Explanatory Summary
This guide introduces biomechanics, transforming a vertical jump into a scientific experiment. Using a smartphone, students will record and analyze their movement to understand the physics involved (trajectory, speed) and reflect on how discipline and constant practice are key to personal improvement and respect for the process.
Skills to be Developed
- Cognitive (Bloom): Analyze movement, evaluate data to find improvements, and create graphs and action plans.
- Transversal: Critical thinking when interpreting data, team collaboration, and digital literacy with analytics apps.
Learning Objectives
- Record vertical jumps applying a basic experimental protocol.
- Analyze recordings to extract quantitative data (flight time, altitude).
- Represent the data in tables and graphs to visualize the trajectory.
- Relate the results to the importance of discipline and respect in self-improvement.
Materials
| Basic (Classroom) | Recycled | Digital (Pro) |
|---|---|---|
| Smartphone (slow motion), tape measure, graph paper. | Wall as background, reused masking tape for markings, chalk. | Video analysis app (e.g. Hudl Technique), Spreadsheet (Google Sheets). |
Step-by-Step Procedure
Phase 1: Introduction and Activation (15 min)
The teacher presents the challenge and demonstrates how to record a jump. Students prepare the recording area.
Phase 2: Development and Data Collection (45 min)
In teams, students record their jumps, analyze the videos to measure time and height, and record the data.
Phase 3: Analysis and Reflection (30 min)
Teams create graphs, interpret the results and discuss the connection between physical analysis and values such as discipline.
Formative Evaluation
Reflection Questions
- (Comprehension) Describe in your own words, what is the trajectory of a jump?
- (Analysis) Compare two different jumps, what variables changed?
- (Application) How would you use this data to train an athlete?
- (Evaluation) Was the measurement accurate with the video, and what would you improve?
- (Creation) Design a change in your technique to try to jump higher.
Evidence: Data table, trajectory graph, answers to questions.
Evaluation Rubric
| Criteria | Initial | Basic | Advanced | Expert |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Data Collection | Incomplete data. | Correct data with minor errors. | Accurate and organized data. | Accurate, well-organized and annotated data. |
| Graphical Analysis | Missing or erroneous graph. | Simple but correct graphics. | Clear and well-labeled graphics. | Accurate graph that allows conclusions to be drawn. |
| Reflection and Values | Surface reflection. | Relate the activity to the improvement. | Argues the connection to the discipline. | Deep connection between science and values. |