Science project
How to Make the Perfect Shot in Basketball
Grade Level: 5th to 8th; Type: Physics
Objective:
The point of this project is to discover the best way to make the perfect shot every time.
Research Questions:
- Did you discover the best way to make the perfect shot?
- Is it better to throw the ball from chest level or waist level?
- Did you prefer getting a running start to make the shot or was it easier to make a shot standing in front of the hoop?
- Does distance away from the hoop matter in determining the best type of shot?
Materials:
- Basketball
- Basketball Court
- A Piece of paper and a helper to chart/record your shooting skills
Experiment Procedure:
- Stand approximately four to five feet in front of the basketball hoop.
- Dribble the ball around to get a feel for the bounce and weight of the ball.
- Using an overhand motion shoot the ball towards the hoop from chest level. Continue practicing this about five times.
- Repeat step three, but try shooting the ball from waist level. Continue practicing this about five times.
- Next, repeat steps three and four, except try to shoot the ball towards the hoop while jumping slightly in the air.
- For the final experiment, place yourself halfway down the court, dribble the ball and get a running start. Practice this shooting the ball at chest level then try it shooting the ball from waist level.
- Based on the questions in the “research question” section, were you able to discover the best way to make a perfect shot every time?
- Follow the steps above and try taking some shots from the left side of the hoop and the right side of the hoop.
Terms/Concepts: proper form, accuracy, free throw, rim shot
References:
Breakthrough Basketball (2011) http://www.breakthroughbasketball.com/fundamentals/shooting-technique.html
Nothing But Net: The Science of Shooting Hoops (Dragonfly 02/07/2011) http://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project_ideas/Sports_p010.shtml
The Coach’s Clipboard, by James A. Gels (2001-2011) http://www.coachesclipboard.net/FreeThrowShooting.html
Basketball Coaches Home: The Art of Shooting a Basketball (2009/2010) http://coacheshome.tripod.com/shooting.html
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Education.com provides the Science Fair Project Ideas for informational purposes only. Education.com does not make any guarantee or representation regarding the Science Fair Project Ideas and is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, caused by your use of such information. By accessing the Science Fair Project Ideas, you waive and renounce any claims against Education.com that arise thereof. In addition, your access to Education.com's website and Science Fair Project Ideas is covered by Education.com's Privacy Policy and site Terms of Use, which include limitations on Education.com's liability.
Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety.
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