Slow Motion Video in the Classroom

As our young scientists are exploring, planning, implementing their plans, and watching the experiment, so much can get lost in the moment. Having a student record an experiment taking place or the reaction of an experiment is a perfect way to explore a single moment, slowing everything down so little eyes can catch every moment.

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In science, mini-seconds count. Our eyes cannot process everything we see the first time, and slow-motion video is the perfect opportunity to really ‘see’ what is happening and start to understand real-world connections for our learning.

My Go-To Tech Tools

• iPhone or iPad for simple filming and air-dropping of footage. Easily manipulated in Garage Band or other video-editting software.
• Stabilizing Phone Video – These are perfect tools for keeping both of your hands available for science, steady footage, and help you snag some great photos or videos of your students’ faces during the learning.
• Slow Motion Race Game – A hilarious and perfect game for indoor recess, PBIS rewards, or morning tubs!

Recording Vibrations

During our sound unit, we learned sounds are made when materials vibrate back and forth very quickly. Our class tried our own rubber band experiment. Each of our table groups received their own rubber band and had to work together to create and feel different vibrations. It tools several of my groups’ SEVERAL rounds/attempts of plucking, picking, and pulling of the rubber bands before they felt their first vibration!

While my friends loved being able to feel the vibrations of the rubber band, my 1st graders struggled to hear the sound produced and really couldn’t see the vibrations. So, for the first time this year, we pulled out the Slow Motion feature on my iPhone. My friend K videoed as we plucked the rubber band and the results were AMAZING! See more here! 

Other Ideas for Slow-Motion Video

• Weight Displacement: Drop an object into a container of water. Without eyes, we see water splashing, but with slow motion, you can watch the weight of the object displace the less-dense water.
• Explore Motion: Use slow motion video to observe how objects move. Students can watch a ball bounce, a pendulum swing, or a bird fly. Encourage them to describe what they see and make predictions about what will happen next.
• Investigate Forces: Slow motion video can help students understand the effects of different forces. They can watch a balloon pop, a block topple, or a magnet attract or repel. Ask them to identify the force at work and explain its effect.
• Examine Natural Phenomena: Slow motion video can capture the beauty and complexity of natural phenomena. Students can watch a waterfall, a lightning strike, or a tornado. Encourage them to ask questions and explore the science behind these events.

Slow motion video is a valuable tool for engaging young students in science. Using it as a resource in our classrooms, students can deepen their understanding of the world around them.