Hi, How Can We Help You?
  • Address: 1251 Lake Forest Drive New York
  • Email Address: assignmenthelpcentral@gmail.com

Blog

August 14, 2025
August 14, 2025

IT Upgrade Planning

You are a corporate or military senior IT manager (Director/Senior Director/VP-CIO or military equivalent) in your chosen project organization. You are required by the top executives (or military equivalents) to initiate a new organization-wide IT upgrade project (you may choose your own). You agree with this decision, its purposes, and the technology involved. You see this assignment as finally getting your long-sought mandate for improvement that will substantially leverage organizational performance.

However, significant IT changes have not always been welcomed within your organization. In fact, your most recent attempt, which had much less profound change, developed some significant resistance. This time you have decided that you and your unit must do considerable preliminary work to pave the way, gain support for, as well as reduce resistance to, this new and vital effort.

You could plow forward using executive mandate. From your MSITM coursework, you understand that IT change has its best chance for success when it considers the system and is a carefully developed, initiated, and managed process.

IT Upgrade Planning

Case Assignment

For this module, you will continue the description and assessment of your chosen organization. At minimum, address these important descriptive and analytic questions, providing enough information to assure clarity:

· Describe the organization from the perspective of its current (unclassified) IT operating technology infrastructure, or the IT technology it provides to its internal or external customers). Discuss its technology deployment, effectiveness, and contribution to organizational or customer success. Also discuss dominant IT strategies and tactics.

· Discuss technological barriers to, as well as circumstances which may foster continued IT success and organizational contribution.

Assignment Expectations

Provide a very brief description of your intended improvement project. Please note that 95% of this paper should focus on the processes of planned change. Your discussion of the IT upgrade must primarily focus on your insight into and a viable process for bringing off this planned change. Provide details on what, how, and why each step you intend to take to ensure this project is accepted and gets accomplished. It is not enough to note that the project has senior approval. In both the military and corporate worlds, project implementation can be given lip service and never fully accepted.

The report should be double spaced, at least 5 pages, not including cover page and references. The reference should follow the APA 7 format.

Module 3 – Resources IT Upgrade Planning

IT Organizational Assessment and Planning

Required Reading

Remember, your major sources of information for this course consist of all that you have learned in your other courses, and you should be prepared to reference those courses and their background material during this class, as well as additional resources that you identify.

Use How to find resources in Skillsoft to access material in Skillsoft.

Required Reading

IT Governance Plan

ITIL® 4 Foundation: Introduction. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Modern Data Management: Data Governance. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

ITIL

TestPrep ITIL 4 Foundation. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Go to Library Access in Additional Library Resources, select Skillsoft Books. In the search box enter TestPrep ITIL 4 Foundation, select the Courses tab, then select TestPrep ITIL 4 Foundation.

Securing the Enterprise

Securing Against Threats, Securing for Enterprise, and Jailbreaking Devices. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery

CISSP 2021: Business Continuity Planning. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Backup & Recovery: Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Data Governance

Modern Data Management: Data Quality Management. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Data Access & Governance Policies: Data Classification, Encryption, and Monitoring. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Cybersecurity

Mitigating Security Risks: Cyber Security Risks. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

An Executive’s Guide to Security: Understanding Security Threats. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Mitigating Security Risks: Maintaining a Secure Workplace. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Optional Reading

Mitre. (n.d.). IT governance . https://www.mitre.org/publications/systems-engineering-guide/enterprise-engineering/enterprise-planning-and-management/it-governance

Chapters 1-12, in: IT Upgrade Planning

Axelos. (2020). ITIL 4: Digital and IT Strategy. TSO. Available in the Trident Online Library (Skillsoft Books).

Chapters 1-10, in:

Smallwood, R. F. (2020). Information governance: Concepts, strategies and best practices. Wiley & Sons. Available in the Trident Online Library (Skillsoft Books).

Please note that this link will open in a new window and may require activation of a LinkedIn account on the first attempt. Trident students may use their student email address to access this free subscription to LinkedIn Learning as a part of this course.

Getting Started with Network Administration – LinkedIn Learning

Module 3 – Resources

IT Organizational Assessment and Planning

Required Reading

Remember, your major sources of information for this course consist of all that you have learned in your other courses, and you should be prepared to reference those courses and their background material during this class, as well as additional resources that you identify.

Use How to find resources in Skillsoft to access material in Skillsoft.

Required Reading

IT Governance Plan

ITIL® 4 Foundation: Introduction. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Modern Data Management: Data Governance. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

ITIL

TestPrep ITIL 4 Foundation. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Go to Library Access in Additional Library Resources, select Skillsoft Books. In the search box enter TestPrep ITIL 4 Foundation, select the Courses tab, then select TestPrep ITIL 4 Foundation.

Securing the Enterprise

Securing Against Threats, Securing for Enterprise, and Jailbreaking Devices. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery

CISSP 2021: Business Continuity Planning. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Backup & Recovery: Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Data Governance

Modern Data Management: Data Quality Management. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Data Access & Governance Policies: Data Classification, Encryption, and Monitoring. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Cybersecurity

Mitigating Security Risks: Cyber Security Risks. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

An Executive’s Guide to Security: Understanding Security Threats. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Mitigating Security Risks: Maintaining a Secure Workplace. Available in the Trident Online Library in Skillsoft.

Optional Reading

Mitre. (n.d.). IT governance . https://www.mitre.org/publications/systems-engineering-guide/enterprise-engineering/enterprise-planning-and-management/it-governance

Chapters 1-12, in:

Axelos. (2020). ITIL 4: Digital and IT Strategy. TSO. Available in the Trident Online Library (Skillsoft Books).

Chapters 1-10, in:

Smallwood, R. F. (2020). Information governance: Concepts, strategies and best practices. Wiley & Sons. Available in the Trident Online Library (Skillsoft Books).

Please note that this link will open in a new window and may require activation of a LinkedIn account on the first attempt. Trident students may use their student email address to access this free subscription to LinkedIn Learning as a part of this course.

Getting Started with Network Administration – LinkedIn Learning

  • Describe the organization from the perspective of its current IT operating technology infrastructure or the IT technology it provides to its internal or external customers.,

  • Discuss its technology deployment effectiveness and contribution to organizational or customer success.,

  • Discuss dominant IT strategies and tactics.,

  • Discuss technological barriers to continued IT success.,

  • Discuss circumstances which may foster continued IT success and organizational contribution.

August 14, 2025
August 14, 2025

Sustaining OD Interventions

The last part of a change process typically includes the analysis and monitoring of any interventions that were implemented. This process entails data collection and measuring outcomes. The analysis would also require assessing the actual effectiveness of the interventions.

Once the initial effectiveness of interventions is determined, it is important to continue with routine or regular follow-up evaluations These evaluations would enable organizations to do the following:

  • Identify any other areas requiring improvement
  • Track progress
  • Make any necessary adjustments to the interventions

Sustaining OD Interventions

Answer the following questions:

  1. What are some examples of ways to analyze the effectiveness of organizational development (OD) interventions?
  2. Why is key stakeholder involvement and feedback important to evaluate success of OD interventions?
  3. What monitoring strategy would you recommend to ensure that OD interventions are maintained?
  4. Reflect on a successful change that you were a part of. What advice would you give to help others manage change?

Your final submission should consist of a 5–7-page Word document (including cover page and resource page). Sustaining OD Interventions

Please use this template to complete your work. 

  1. What are some examples of ways to analyze the effectiveness of organizational development (OD) interventions? Sustaining OD Interventions,

  2. Why is key stakeholder involvement and feedback important to evaluate the success of OD interventions?,

  3. What monitoring strategy would you recommend to ensure that OD interventions are maintained?,

  4. Reflect on a successful change that you were a part of.,

  5. What advice would you give to help others manage change?


Comprehensive Response

Introduction
Organizational Development (OD) interventions aim to improve efficiency, adaptability, and workplace culture. While planning and execution are important, the last stage—analysis and monitoring—determines if changes meet their intended goals and whether they can be sustained. This reflection addresses evaluation methods, stakeholder feedback, long-term monitoring strategies, and lessons learned from personal experience in a successful change process.


1. Examples of Ways to Analyze OD Effectiveness
Effectiveness can be measured using a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative approaches include tracking KPIs such as productivity, turnover rates, and customer satisfaction before and after the intervention. Qualitative approaches include focus groups, interviews, and direct observation to understand cultural or behavioral impacts. Combining both ensures a comprehensive understanding of results, not just numbers but the human experience behind them.


2. Importance of Stakeholder Involvement
Key stakeholders—employees, managers, and customers—offer perspectives that data alone cannot reveal. Their involvement:

  • Validates whether the intervention is improving real-world operations.

  • Identifies unintended consequences early.

  • Encourages ownership and commitment to sustaining the change.

When stakeholders feel heard, they become active partners in maintaining improvements rather than passive observers.


3. Recommended Monitoring Strategy
A Continuous Improvement Monitoring Plan based on the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) cycle is highly effective:

  • Plan: Define clear objectives, metrics, and timelines.

  • Do: Implement the intervention with proper training.

  • Check: Review data and gather feedback quarterly.

  • Act: Adjust the intervention as necessary to address gaps.

This ensures changes remain relevant, efficient, and adaptable over time.

Sustaining OD Interventions

August 14, 2025
August 14, 2025

Keys to Team Success

Teams are important, whether it is a school, volunteer, work, or sports team. Strong teams accomplish things. What makes a team good, though? It is not luck. It is a lot of hard work and commitment. Being on a team is not without its challenges. So team members often have to work together to overcome any challenges that may arise. This assignment looks at some key things that help teams succeed, such as sharing ideas, open communication, overcoming challenges, understanding how teams grow and change.

Read this article: The 5 Stages of Team Development, With Examples.

In a 3–5-pgs answer the following:

  • What good things happen when teams have open communication?
  • What are the stages of team development?
  • What are some of the challenges teams might face?
  • What are some ways you could help a team overcome those challenges?

Keys to Team Success

Download this template to help complete the assignment: U3 IP Template. Keys to Team Success

Five Assignment Questions Highlighted

  1. What good things happen when teams have open communication?,

  2. What are the stages of team development?,

  3. What are some of the challenges teams might face?,

  4. What are some ways you could help a team overcome those challenges?,

  5. How do these ideas connect to the growth and change of teams?


Comprehensive Response

1. Benefits of Open Communication
When teams have open communication, trust is built among members, making it easier to share ideas and collaborate effectively. Open communication promotes transparency, reduces misunderstandings, and helps resolve conflicts quickly. It also encourages active participation, allowing every member to feel valued and included. For example, in a work team, open communication can lead to faster problem-solving because members can openly express concerns and suggest solutions without fear of criticism.

2. Stages of Team Development
According to The 5 Stages of Team Development model, teams typically progress through:

  • Forming: Members get to know each other, understand the team’s purpose, and clarify expectations.

  • Storming: Differences in opinions emerge, and conflicts may arise as individuals assert themselves.

  • Norming: The team begins to establish norms, resolve conflicts, and develop stronger relationships.

  • Performing: Members work efficiently toward shared goals, leveraging each other’s strengths.

  • Adjourning: The team disbands after achieving its objectives, often reflecting on successes and lessons learned. Keys to Team Success

3. Common Challenges Teams Might Face
Teams may face issues such as unclear goals, personality clashes, poor communication, unequal workload distribution, or resistance to change. External factors, like time constraints and resource limitations, can also create stress and hinder performance.

4. Ways to Overcome Challenges
To help a team overcome challenges, I would:

  • Establish clear goals and roles so everyone knows their responsibilities.

  • Encourage open dialogue to address conflicts early.

  • Promote team-building activities to strengthen relationships.

  • Provide regular feedback and recognition to keep morale high.

  • Use collaborative tools to improve efficiency and transparency.

5. Connection to Team Growth and Change
These practices support the natural progression of team development stages. Open communication and proactive problem-solving can shorten the storming phase and help the team reach peak performance faster. By addressing challenges constructively, teams can adapt to change more effectively and sustain success over time.

August 14, 2025
August 14, 2025

Evaluating and Sustaining OD Interventions

The last part of a change process typically includes the analysis and monitoring of any interventions that were implemented. This process entails data collection and measuring outcomes. The analysis would also require assessing the actual effectiveness of the interventions.

Once the initial effectiveness of interventions is determined, it is important to continue with routine or regular follow-up evaluations These evaluations would enable organizations to do the following:

  • Identify any other areas requiring improvement
  • Track progress
  • Make any necessary adjustments to the interventions

Evaluating and Sustaining OD Interventions

Answer the following questions:

Evaluating and Sustaining OD Interventions

  1. What are some examples of ways to analyze the effectiveness of organizational development (OD) interventions?
  2. Why is key stakeholder involvement and feedback important to evaluate success of OD interventions?
  3. What monitoring strategy would you recommend to ensure that OD interventions are maintained?
  4. Reflect on a successful change that you were a part of. What advice would you give to help others manage change?

Your final submission should consist of a 5–7-page Word document (including cover page and resource page).

Please use this template to complete your work.

Five Assignment Questions Highlighted

  1. What are some examples of ways to analyze the effectiveness of organizational development (OD) interventions?,

  2. Why is key stakeholder involvement and feedback important to evaluate success of OD interventions?,

  3. What monitoring strategy would you recommend to ensure that OD interventions are maintained?,

  4. Reflect on a successful change that you were a part of.,

  5. What advice would you give to help others manage change?


Comprehensive Response

1. Examples of Ways to Analyze OD Effectiveness
There are several established approaches to measure the success of organizational development interventions. Quantitative methods include pre- and post-intervention performance metrics, employee productivity data, and financial indicators such as cost savings or increased revenue. Qualitative methods may involve structured interviews, focus groups, or observation of team dynamics to assess cultural shifts and engagement levels. For instance, a training program could be analyzed using pre- and post-training assessments to measure skill acquisition, combined with follow-up surveys to gauge knowledge retention. Benchmarking against industry standards can also reveal whether the intervention places the organization in a more competitive position.

2. Importance of Stakeholder Involvement and Feedback
Stakeholder involvement is essential because stakeholders bring varied perspectives, operational knowledge, and vested interest in the outcomes. Their feedback ensures that the evaluation captures the real-world impact of the intervention rather than relying solely on leadership perceptions or statistical reports. Engaging stakeholders also promotes transparency and trust, increasing the likelihood of buy-in for future initiatives. For example, frontline employees may highlight process inefficiencies that leadership is unaware of, while customers may offer insight into service improvements that directly influence satisfaction and loyalty.

3. Recommended Monitoring Strategy
I recommend a Continuous Improvement Monitoring Strategy based on the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle. This would involve:

  • Plan: Establish clear goals, success metrics, and timelines.

  • Do: Implement the intervention with proper communication and training.

  • Check: Conduct regular data reviews (quarterly or bi-annually) using key performance indicators (KPIs).

  • Act: Make targeted adjustments based on findings.
    Technology can support this process through dashboards that track metrics in real time, while quarterly feedback sessions with stakeholders ensure qualitative alignment with organizational values.

4. Reflection on a Successful Change Experience
In my previous role, I participated in a transition to a cloud-based project management system. The change aimed to improve communication across departments and streamline task tracking. Success was achieved because leadership clearly communicated the vision, provided comprehensive training, and phased the rollout to allow for gradual adoption. Metrics such as reduced email volume, faster project completion times, and increased cross-team collaboration confirmed its effectiveness.

Evaluating and Sustaining OD Interventions

August 14, 2025
August 14, 2025

Technology-Integrated Lesson Reflection

A lesson can be perfectly planned, but if not implemented correctly it may not be effective for learning. Gathering feedback from others regarding implementation can lead to improved practices for new and experienced teachers. Observing others and being observed is a great way to provide feedback and gather additional data on a lesson’s effectiveness for supporting students in meeting the objective.

Allocate at least 2 hours in an inclusive K-12 classroom that includes students with disabilities for this field experience.

Implement the activity developed with your mentor teacher in Clinical Field Experience B or another activity using technology with the whole class or a small group of students. Be sure to utilize the differentiation strategies you and your mentor teacher discussed to meet the needs of all students in the class/group.

Technology-Integrated Lesson Reflection

Technology-Integrated Lesson Reflection

Following the implementation, seek feedback from your mentor teacher. Discuss the following:

  • How the implementation went, include whether the students met the objective of the activity. Discuss how you made this determination.
  • What you and your mentor felt was effective, and what you would do differently next time.
  • The effectiveness of the differentiation and how the technology supported students during the activity.

Spend any remaining field experience hours observing or assisting the teacher in providing instruction and support to the class.

Following the implementation and discussion, write a 250-500 word reflection. Summarize the implementation of the activity and feedback from your mentor teacher. How did the technology used in the activity help meet the needs of all the students in the group or class? What parts of the lesson were effective and what would you change for next time? Did the students meet the objectives of the activity and how did you know?

APA format is not required, but solid academic writing is expected.

This assignment uses a rubric. Review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.

Technology-Integrated Lesson Reflection

  1. How did the implementation go,  did students meet the objective of the activity? How did you determine this?,

  2. What did you and your mentor feel was effective?,

  3. What would you do differently next time?,

  4. How effective was the differentiation,  how did the technology support students during the activity?

  5. How did the technology help meet the needs of all students in the group or class?

August 14, 2025
August 14, 2025

Globalization & Society

Topic Selection: Select one of the topics below. It can be a theme that aligns with your final assignment, your program of study, or simply one of general interest. Read the linked source associated with that topic.

History: Decolonizations, Colonizations, and More DecolonizationsLinks to an external site.
Economics: Globalization and the Evolution of the Supply Chain: Who Gains and Who Loses?Links to an external site.
Political Science: Race, representation, and the Voting Rights ActLinks to an external site.
Reflect: Reflect upon the themes that the disciplines covered this week explore and the methods that they use to explore these topics. How do these different approaches and themes help contribute to the larger understanding of society, culture, and human behavior? Based upon your understandings of these disciplines, how might their approach to topics be helpful to other disciplines within the social sciences? Other academic disciplines outside of the social sciences? To the general public?In addition, think about the strategies used by practitioners of these disciplines to avoid bias. Do these differ from the social science disciplines that you read about last week? If so, how? Can these approaches be adapted for use outside of the social sciences?Write: In an initial post of at least 250 words

Globalization & Society

Select one of the three disciplines examined this week, and discuss why you selected the discipline you did and how this discipline is distinct from other disciplines in the social sciences (Think about methods topics explored, etc.). Globalization & Society
Examine the topic discussed by the source linked above for your discipline.
Describe how your selected topic is related to the concepts of the individual, society, and culture.
Note the main points of the article, its conclusion, and assess how the questions asked by the social scientist in question are related to their discipline’s practice.
Discuss the methodology used within the article and relate the authors’ approach to specific examples in the text.
Assess any potential connections between the discipline you examined this week and the disciplines explored in week 3 with regard to the source you examined.
Postulate potential applications for your selected discipline and its approaches to everyday life.
Please use in-text APA citations within your post, as well as full APA references at the end of your post. If you need APA assistance, review the APA StyleLinks to an external site. resources. Globalization & Society

  • Select one of the three disciplines examined this week,  discuss why you selected the discipline you did and how this discipline is distinct from other disciplines in the social sciences.,

  • Examine the topic discussed by the source linked above for your discipline.,

  • Describe how your selected topic is related to the concepts of the individual society and culture.,

  • Note the main points of the article its conclusion,  assess how the questions asked by the social scientist in question are related to their discipline’s practice.

  • Discuss the methodology used within the article and relate the authors’ approach to specific examples in the text.

August 13, 2025
August 13, 2025

Race & Representation

Reflect: Reflect upon the themes that the disciplines covered this week explore and the methods that they use to explore these topics. How do these different approaches and themes help contribute to the larger understanding of society, culture, and human behavior? Based upon your understandings of these disciplines, how might their approach to topics be helpful to other disciplines within the social sciences? Other academic disciplines outside of the social sciences? To the general public?In addition, think about the strategies used by practitioners of these disciplines to avoid bias. Do these differ from the social science disciplines that you read about last week? If so, how? Can these approaches be adapted for use outside of the social sciences?Write: In an initial post of at least 250 words

Race & Representation

  • Select one of the three disciplines examined this week, and discuss why you selected the discipline you did and how this discipline is distinct from other disciplines in the social sciences (Think about methods topics explored, etc.).
  • Examine the topic discussed by the source linked above for your discipline.
    • Describe how your selected topic is related to the concepts of the individual, society, and culture. Race & Representation
    • Note the main points of the article, its conclusion, and assess how the questions asked by the social scientist in question are related to their discipline’s practice.
    • Discuss the methodology used within the article and relate the authors’ approach to specific examples in the text.
  • Assess any potential connections between the discipline you examined this week and the disciplines explored in week 3 with regard to the source you examined.
  • Postulate potential applications for your selected discipline and its approaches to everyday life.

Please use in-text APA citations within your post, as well as full APA references at the end of your post. If you need APA assistance, review the APA StyleLinks to an external site. resources. Race & Representation

  1. Why did you select this discipline, and how is it distinct from others in the social sciences?,

  2. How is the selected topic related to the concepts of the individual, society and culture?,

  3. What are the main points conclusion and related questions from the article?,

  4. What methodology was used in the article?,

  5. What are the potential applications of this discipline to everyday life?

August 13, 2025
August 13, 2025

Dynamic Models & Circular Motion

In this activity, you’ll use a video measurement and analysis tool called Tracker. Tracker enables you to create two different types of mathematical models: analytical and dynamic. In an analytical model, you can enter mathematical expressions for x and y positions as a function of time. That’s sometimes useful, but from a physics perspective, a dynamic model is much more flexible and powerful.

With a dynamic model, you can set the initial conditions for a particular system (initial positions and velocities); then you can mathematically define any forces acting on that system. Once those are set up, the model becomes like an object in space, responding to the forces you’ve imposed on it. It might continue moving forever, if that’s what the forces would do to an object in real life. By visually matching a marker for your model to the real motion on the video, you can define and refine a mathematical model for a wide range of real-world situations.

Dynamic Models & Circular Motion

In this activity, you’ll use Tracker to observe the displacement, velocity, and acceleration of a mass on a spring. Tracker is a free scientific tool available through the Open Source Physics Project.

Preparation – Creating a Dynamic Particle Model
If you’ve never built a dynamic model before using Tracker, you’ll need to prepare a bit and find out where you can get help in creating your models. In Tracker, you can always access illustrated Help. For this project, you’re going to need to check out the Tracker Help instructions for creating a dynamic model.

In Tracker, just click on the Help menu, then, click Tracker Help. In the Tracker Help window, click Particle Models. This short, illustrated document tells you everything you need to know to create a dynamic particle model in Tracker. You can print this Help document, but it is available from Tracker anytime you need to refer to it.

Instructions – Building your Dynamic Model
Start your activity by opening this Tracker experiment: Spring Wars model

Click play Play button. to watch the video. The other video controls allow you to rewind Rewind button. the video or step forward Step forward button. or backward Backward button. one frame at a time.

You’ve seen the motion of a mass on a spring where the motion is largely “undamped”; that is, it continues for a very long time at about the same amplitude. There are two common ways to slow down an object in harmonic motion:

  • kinetic friction – directly proportional to weight and opposite the direction of velocity
  • Dynamic Models & Circular Motionspring damping – directly proportional to velocity and opposite the direction of velocity

Both of these damping forces are at work in this video, but the frictional force is by far the most significant here.

A dynamic model is already started for you in this file. Follow the two steps in the screen captures below to open the model setup and begin your modeling work.

  1. Select the point mass Model.
    (from the blue pull-down control in the top menu)

Selecting model from pull-down option in the top menu. Dynamic Models & Circular Motion

  1. Open the Model Builder.
    (from the “Model” mass pull-down menu)

Selecting model builder from the upper pull-down menu.

  1. Once you’ve opened the Model Builder screen, use the Tracker Help documentation to begin filling out the basic information about this motion. You only have complete data table information starting at time t = 0.00 seconds, so use that as your initial time. Enter data in each of the three sections:
    • parameters –Set m = 0.250 kilograms. Add a parameter k for the spring constant and a parameter mk for the coefficient of kinetic friction.
    • initial values – From the data table, enter those that apply to this x-direction motion: tx, and vx.
    • force functions – It will be easier and cleaner to enter the force function as a sum of two forces, the spring force and the frictional force: fxFs + Ff. (Notice that this section turns red after you enter the force functions, since you have not defined Fs and Ff yet.)
    • Add a new force function for Fs, the spring force. Note that the equilibrium point is at x = 0, so this force law should be pretty easy for you.
    • Add a new force function for Ff, the frictional force.

Frictional force is defined as Ff = µkmg, where µk is the coefficient of kinetic friction. Since this force has to be opposite the direction of motion, though, and since the direction of motion keeps changing, you must use a little creativity to define it. You basically just need something that will output +1 or -1, depending on the direction of your velocity.

v⁢x|v⁢x|can be your “magic factor” here: +1 if velocity is (+) and -1 if velocity is (-).

So, you just need to figure out how to write the following expression into the Tracker model:

Ff=−μk⁢m⁢g⁡(v⁢x|v⁢x|)

  1. Finally, to make your model work, you’ll have to find values for the spring constant k and the coefficient of friction μk. You’ll just have to play around with μk, but you can get close to the spring constant value by looking at some of your data. The first question below will help you with that.

Part A

Calculate the spring constant.

  • Look at the graph of x vs. t graph. (You may want to double-click on it to examine it in the Data Tool view.)
  • From the graph, determine the period T.
  • The first video frame lists the mass.
  • Use the equation below to solve for the spring constant k. Show your work below.

T=2⁢π square root ⁢mk

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part B Dynamic Models & Circular Motion

Enter into the table your calculated value for the spring constant, then play with different values of mk until you get a close match to the motion. (Note: It will never be perfect. Remember that there are two kinds of spring damping. Both are at work here, but we are not going to model both.) Once you’re satisfied with your model, record your model values in the table below.

Variables               Expression

parameter: m

parameter: k

parameter: mk

initial value: t

initial value: x

initial value: vx

fx

Fs

Ff

10ptSpace used(includes formatting): 1376 / 30000

Part C

Describe how your model works compared to the actual spring motion. When are they close together? When are they not so close?

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part D

Now that you’ve had some experience with damped harmonic motion, describe two different real-world harmonic motions you’ve seen—one with very little damping and the other with noticeable damping. Describe how those two motions differ and are the same.

15px

 

Amusement Park Physics

Amusement parks provide many hours of fun, but did you know you can also practice your physics there? Yes, parks rides rely on physics to function. Let’s look at rides that travel in a circular path, such as a roller coaster or carousel. These rides illustrate the concept of centripetal force. We will also consider the sensation of being pulled to the outside of these rides, which we call centrifugal force.

Part A

Why do we experience centripetal force and acceleration on a carousel?

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part B

Many people believe that it is centrifugal force that causes the sensation of being pulled to the outside on a carousel. What accounts for this common misconception?

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part C

Research how a centrifuge works. Relate the mass of an object to its centripetal force, and give examples of how centrifuges are used. Include at least two authoritative research sources to support your response. Record these sources at the end of your response.

  • How do you calculate the spring constant from oscillation data?,

  • How does your dynamic model compare to the actual spring motion?,

  • What are two real-world examples of harmonic motion, one with little damping and one with noticeable damping?,

  • Why do we experience centripetal force on a carousel?,

  • How does a centrifuge work, and how is centripetal force related to mass?

August 13, 2025
August 13, 2025

Thermodynamics & Climate Impact

Imagine you’re driving along a road and you approach a bridge. You notice a sign that reads, “Bridge freezes before road.” Why do bridges become covered with ice before roads do? Research this question and respond in depth, writing a full paragraph. Be sure to include examples. At the end of your response, provide at least two authoritative sources that you used in your research.

Thermodynamics

Thermodynamics is the branch of physics concerned with a system’s energy and work. Scientists became interested in thermodynamics back in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, with the birth of the Industrial Revolution. Use online or print resources to answer the following questions about the importance of thermodynamics. Cite at least three authoritative resources to support your responses.

Part A

You’ve learned about the laws of thermodynamics. Using examples, explain why the first and second laws are significant for living organisms.

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Thermodynamics & Climate Impact

Part B

Heat engines were first envisioned and built during the Industrial Revolution. Explain the thermodynamics of a heat engine, commenting on its efficiency.

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part C Thermodynamics & Climate Impact

Heat pumps and refrigerators are modern conveniences that came from the study of thermodynamics. In a paragraph, explain how they work.

15px
 

Global Warming

Scientists are actively studying what amount of the greenhouse gases present in the atmosphere is a result of human activity. Research greenhouse gases and global warming to answer the questions below. Document at least three authoritative sources.

Part A

What evidence is there that the use of fossil fuels, which produce carbon dioxide, is causing climate change?

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part B

Describe how computer climate models help scientists understand possible future climate changes. How reliable are these computer models in making predictions about global warming? Discuss any limitations in these models.

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part C

What can you do? Read up on the issue and discover ways you can reduce the human “carbon footprint” on the planet. Include four examples of what can be done in homes and in the community. Cite your sources.

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part D

Many people believe that if the human race continues to use energy as we are now, without change, we’ll witness a significant worldwide environmental impact in this century. Research this topic and discuss this possibility. Include concrete examples of specific environmental consequences of global warming.

15px Thermodynamics & Climate Impact

  • Why do bridges freeze before roads?,

  • Why are the first and second laws of thermodynamics important for living organisms?,

  • How does a heat engine work, and what affects its efficiency?,

  • What evidence links fossil fuel use to climate change?,

  • How can individuals reduce their carbon footprint?

August 13, 2025
August 13, 2025

Comparison of Wave Properties

The three most common types of waves that we encounter in our daily life are water, sound, and light waves. While water and sound waves can only travel through a medium, light waves don’t need one. In this activity, you’ll study the similarities and differences among water, sound, and light waves.

To begin your activity, open this simulation: Wave Interference.

There are three tabs, Water, Sound, and Light. Observe these waves and then draw conclusions from your observations.

Question 1

Water: Start with the Water tab. Note that light areas represent places where the water is high (crests). Dark areas represent low points (troughs).

The water drops should already be dripping from the faucet. You can increase their frequency by using the Frequency slider. You can expand or decrease the size of your “sink space” by clicking the green +/- sign in the upper right corner of the sink. Using the controls on the far right, you can add measuring tools, add a wall, add another faucet, or insert a single-slit or two-slit barrier.

Comparison of Wave Properties

Part A

What kind of wave patterns do you observe in the sink in the top view?

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part B

Comparison of Wave Properties

Click on the Show Graph button at the bottom of the window. (If you have expanded your sink, you’ll probably need to decrease its size again to see this graph.) The graph shows the moving water level, which is the actual amplitude of the waves.

What general mathematical graph function does this look like? What pattern do you observe in the amplitude of these waves? Provide a hypothesis to explain this pattern in the amplitude.

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part C

What happens when you increase the frequency of the water drops? What happens to the wavelength of the waves on the surface of water?

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part D

If you increase the frequency, what happens to the velocity of the wave?

In answering this question, describe how you determined the velocity as well as the result you arrived at. Then, provide a scientific explanation for this result, based on your knowledge of waves.

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part E

What happens when you add a second drip and space both the drips close together? Describe the pattern they form and explain the cause for this pattern in detail.

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part F

Turn off the second drip and then add a barrier with one slit. What do you observe on the right side of the wall? What do you observe on the left side of the wall? From a physics perspective, explain your observations of what is happening on both sides of the barrier.

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Question 2

Sound: Now click the Sound tab.

Part A

On the Sound tab, investigate briefly all the phenomena you explored with water waves above and describe any similarities in your results for sound. Specifically, describe

  • wave pattern as seen on the screen
  • shape and amplitude of the graph
  • effect of frequency on wavelength
  • effect of frequency on velocity
  • pattern with two sources
  • wave pattern with a single-slit barrier

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part B

Sound and water waves obviously have many similarities, but they are not exactly the same. Describe all the differences you can think of between sound waves and water waves.

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Question 3

Light: Now click the Light tab.

Part A

On the Light tab, once again investigate briefly all the phenomena you explored with water and sound above. Describe any similarities in your results for light. Specifically describe

  • wave pattern as seen on the screen
  • shape and amplitude of the graph
  • effect of frequency on wavelength
  • effect of frequency on velocity
  • pattern with two sources
  • wave pattern with a single-slit barrier

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part B

Light waves have some similarities with water and sound waves, but they are not exactly the same. Describe all the differences you can think of between light waves, sound waves, or water waves.

15px

Comparison of Wave Properties

In this activity, you will research and discuss the motion of ocean waves. Do online research on both ocean waves and tsunamis, then answer the following questions. Here are two sources to start with:

  1. Ocean Explorer What causes ocean waves? : Ocean Exploration Facts: NOAA Ocean Exploration
  2. Tsunami  Tsunami Facts and Information

Part A

Which factors affect the speed of ocean waves?

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part B

How do the shape, path, and speed of ocean waves change when they move towards shallow water?

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part C

What is a tsunami? How is it formed?

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

 

Shock Waves

In this activity, you’ll explore shock waves in air and sonic booms. Conduct online research on shock waves, sonic booms, and breaking the sound barrier. Then answer the following questions. Here are two sources to start with:

  1. Shockwaves  Shock waves, the sonic boom and the sound barrier – from Physclips waves and sound
  2. What is Supersonic Flight  What Is Supersonic Flight? (Grades 5-8) – NASA

Part A

What are shock waves? How are they produced?

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part B

Explain the meaning of the word supersonic.

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part C

What is a sonic boom?

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

Part D

How do supersonic flights create sonic boom? Please explain in detail.

15pxSpace used(includes formatting): 0 / 30000

  1. What happens to wavelength when frequency increases in water waves?,

  2. What similarities exist between sound and water waves?,

  3. How do light waves differ from water and sound waves?,

  4. Which factors affect the speed of ocean waves?,

  5. What are shock waves and how are they produced?