Graphical data representing the relationships between distance, time, and velocity are commonly explored in science classrooms. At the same time, these concepts can be abstract and difficult for students to visualize and understand. Engaging students in an activity in which they are asked to conduct an experiment, collect data, and interpret results in order to answer a question can encourage them to develop meaningful understandings of science concepts. In the process, students practice skills of inquiry, reasoning and argumentation that are also central to understanding the nature of science.

In this activity students will explore the question: Can humans walk at a constant velocity? On the surface, an answer to this question seems obvious, and based on their own experience students are usually quick to predict that it is quite easy to walk at a constant velocity. However, when using the motion detector, more detailed measurements can be made that reveal great variability in velocity during walking. It is actually very challenging to walk at a constant velocity for any length of time.