No one commonly associates bugs with physics. However, take a Hexbug Nano and record it with a mobile device then you have the makings of an excellent motion lab!
I had my students prepare a box with a grid on the bottom. They then turned on the bug and let it run while videoing it with their smart phone or iPod. The students then uploaded their videos to whatever online host they used in order to analyze the motion of the bug.
We used Tracker from the open source physics project to analyze the video. The students advanced the video frame by frame and recorded the x and y distance of each movement. From these frame by frame measurements, the were able to find the speed and average velocity in the x and y directions.
A few students grumbled about the project. Their complaint was that they did not appreciate the technology. I figure as they become familiar with the processes and technology they will appreciate the use of it. Even with grumblers, the bug project was a success in terms of engagement, excitements and learning the concept. As the lab reports com in, I share some links of those that are excellent.
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