CSEC Physics • Lesson 1 of 2Scientific Method · Myers Science Hub Student Centre
CourseCSEC Physics
Practice formatMCQ • Structured • Experimental
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Learning objectives
- Apply the scientific method to a testable physics problem.
- Define the period of a pendulum.
- Distinguish independent, dependent and controlled variables.
- Explain why timing many oscillations and repeating trials improves reliability.
Core notes
Scientific method
A useful investigation moves from observation/question to hypothesis, fair test, measurements, analysis and a conclusion supported by evidence.
Simple pendulum
A small bob is suspended from a fixed point by a light string. One complete oscillation is one full to-and-fro motion. Period, T, is the time for one complete oscillation.
Variables
CSEC focuses the initial pendulum investigation on length of string, mass of bob and angle of displacement. Change one factor at a time while controlling the others.
Reliable timing
Time 10–20 oscillations, then divide by the number of oscillations. Repeat and average. This reduces the percentage effect of reaction-time error.
Video lesson
Paper 01-style MCQ
1. A student investigates how pendulum length affects period. Which variable should be the dependent variable?UK • 1
2. Timing 20 oscillations instead of one mainly helps toUK • 1
Paper 02-style structured question
3. A student records 24.6 s, 24.2 s and 24.4 s for 20 oscillations of the same pendulum. Calculate the mean period.UK • 3
Mean time for 20 oscillations = (24.6+24.2+24.4)/3 = 24.4 s (1). Period = 24.4/20 (1) = 1.22 s (1).
Experimental Skills / planning
4. Describe an experiment to determine how the length of a simple pendulum affects its period.XS/PD • 10
Set up bob/string securely (1); measure length from pivot to centre of bob (1); use at least five different lengths over a suitable range (1); keep bob mass and small release angle constant (2); release without push (1); time e.g. 20 oscillations (1); repeat timing and average (1); calculate period T and T² where required (1); tabulate/plot appropriate graph and conclude from pattern (1).