Biomechanics unit/student activity booklet

This is a student interactive unit/booklet that covers Biomechanical content (kinematic and kinetic) from a Physical Education perspective. The key knowledge and skills have been taken from the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) Study Design for VCE Physical Education.

This booklet is appropriate for students from Year 9 through to Year 12 Physical Education.

Within each 'biomechanical concept,' there is a range of ways for students to engage with the content and skills to demonstrate their understanding as they progress through the unit. This is inclusive of, sporting articles with follow-up questions, visuals, diagrams, videos, summary notes, and completing practical laboratories, such as measuring and recording speed. Students will also engage with interactive investigations such as the 'egg drop' when exploring the concept of impulse. Real-world sporting scenarios are explored, where students can apply their understanding. The booklet also provides 'test your understanding' drop-down quizzes throughout and extension questions, including, exam-style questions.

The research task at the end of the booklet can be used as an assessment tool, allowing for student choice, by allowing learners to apply various biomechanical concepts to the following question, relating to a specific sporting example:

“How has technology OR technique contributed to improved performances in sport?”

The task instruction includes various examples (but is not limited to) of what students may wish to explore, for example:

• How have running shoes improved over time?
• How has clothing changed in swimming or cycling?
• How have racquets changed in tennis?
• How has the shot put technique changed?

The structure of the booklet is outlined below:

1. What is Biomechanics? What is a Biomechanist?
[Inclusive of career pathway information]

2. Kinematic Concepts of Human Movement - Angular and Linear

[Distance, Speed/Velocity, Acceleration + Projectile motion]

3. Kinetic Concepts of Human Movement - Angular and Linear

[Force, Momentum + Impulse]

4. Biomechanics Investigation

[Assessment task - no rubric provided]