As we wrap up our studies of 1- and 2-D kinematics, we begin our study of dynamics, the branch of mechanics concerned with the "causes" of motion. We are going to find in these studies that one scientist, Sir Isaac Newton, almost single-handedly created the physics that we will be studying. Prior to beginning our studies of dynamics in earnest, I would like you to take the time to look at the life and times of the man who was responsible for much of the good stuff we will be engaged in.

THE INVESTIGATION:

I would therefore like you to do some research into the life of Isaac Newton and prepare either a report or a presentation of your findings. Rather than to simply research Sir Isaac in a very general way, I would like your research to be more focused. Here is how I would like you to go about investigating Newton...

1. Do some basic research to find out Newton's basic "stats." Where and when was he born? What was his childhood like? How was he educated? Where was he employed? When did he die?

2. Isaac Newton's accomplishments are many. I would like you to first identify a number of them by doing some quick research. You should find such things as his invention of a new telescope, his work with light, his ideas on gravitation and planetary motion, his theories of motion, etc. Then, choose ONE of these accomplishments and do a much more thorough work of investigating that one topic.

3. Sir Isaac was an interesting man in a number of ways. He was a bit of a recluse in his early life, then very much became the "man about town" in his later years. He also had some very unusual (and potentially very dangerous, from professional and personal points of view) interests in some pretty arcane stuff. You should dig around and see what interesting things you can find about the life and times of Isaac Newton.

REPORTING OUT:

Having now done a thorough job of research, pull together what you have found into an interesting narrative and present that narrative either as a written report.