Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to apply physics concepts to analyze and understand the science behind NFL plays and movements.

Materials and Prep

• Computer or tablet with internet access
• Pen and paper for note-taking
• Access to NFL game footage or highlight videos

Prior knowledge of basic physics concepts such as motion, forces, and energy would be helpful but not necessary.

Activities

1. Watch NFL Game Footage: Select a few NFL game clips or highlight videos that showcase different plays, such as a touchdown pass, a field goal kick, or a tackle. Analyze the movements of the players involved and identify the physics principles at play.
2. Physics Analysis: For each play, have the student identify and explain the physics concepts involved. For example, they could discuss the projectile motion of a pass, the conservation of momentum during a tackle, or the transfer of energy in a field goal kick.
3. Research and Report: Ask the student to choose one specific play or aspect of the game that interests them and conduct further research on the physics behind it. They can write a short report or create a presentation to explain their findings.

Twelfth Grade Talking Points

• "In the game of football, understanding the physics behind the movements of players can provide valuable insights into the strategies and outcomes of different plays."
• "The laws of motion, as described by Sir Isaac Newton, play a crucial role in explaining the dynamics of objects on the football field."
• "For example, when a quarterback throws a pass, the ball follows a parabolic trajectory known as projectile motion."
• "During a tackle, the conservation of momentum is observed, where the combined momentum of the players before and after the collision remains constant."
• "The transfer of energy is also evident in a field goal kick, where the potential energy stored in the kicker's leg is converted into kinetic energy to propel the ball through the uprights."
• "By understanding these physics principles, players and coaches can make more informed decisions and improve their performance on the field."