A full investigation written in the CXC reporting format — Part A (proposal) and Part B (implementation) — on how the size of a parachute canopy affects its fall time, with the marks each section earns.
6 narrated scenes. Press play, listen and read along — the points appear as they are explained. Use ‹ Prev / Next › or the scene bar to jump to any scene.
Seeing a complete investigation from start to finish is the best way to learn what a top-mark report looks like. This one uses a paper parachute.
Narration uses your device’s built-in voice. No sound? Switch to “Captions only” — the captions advance on their own.
Copy these into your notebook in your own words — that is how they stick.
Observation, hypothesis (2), aim (1), materials (1), method (2), controlled variables (1), expected results (2), assumptions/precautions (1).
Method (1), results (4), discussion (5), limitations (3), reflections (5), conclusion (2).
Manipulated: canopy side; responding: fall time; controlled: load, height, paper, dropper.
Repeat three times; mean; area = side².
Larger canopy → greater air resistance → lower terminal velocity → longer fall time.
Reaction time, draughts, tilting, release height by eye.
Real-life use of parachutes; what was learned; justified adjustment.
Hypothesis supported by the data.
3 quick games on this lesson. Earn XP and badges as you play — your best score for each game is saved. Games are for practice and do not change your exam readiness. More games in the Physics Arcade.
8 items modelled on real CSEC Paper 1 questions. Choose one answer for each, then check. Aim for 80% or better. Work each item on paper first.
Write full answers, then reveal the mark scheme and tick the points you earned (30 marks in total). Show all your working — method marks count. Your answers are saved on this device.
Question 1 [30 marks]
Choose ONE of these questions and write a proposal. (A) How does the number of paper towels affect the rebound height of a ball? (B) How does the surface area of a cooling can affect its rate of cooling? (C) How does the angle of a ramp affect the speed of a trolley?
(a) (a) State the observation or problem and write a testable hypothesis. [3]
(b) (b) State the aim and list the materials and apparatus. [2]
(c) (c) Identify the manipulated and responding variables and at least two controlled variables. [3]
(d) (d) Write a method in numbered steps, including repeats. [4]
(e) (e) State your expected results and one assumption or precaution. [3]
(f) (f) Design a table for your results, with units. [3]
(g) (g) After carrying out the investigation, write a conclusion related to your aim. [2]
(h) (h) State two limitations and one improvement. [3]
(i) (i) State one real-life use of what you found. [1]
(j) (j) Explain how this investigation could be used for Biology or Chemistry credit as well as Physics. [6]
Everything in this lesson is based on these parts of the CXC syllabus and papers.