Physics students’ conceptual understanding of “<i>gravity and free fall</i>”

Abstract

The focus of this study is to ascertain the conceptual understanding students of Bolgatanga Girls Senior High School (BGSHS) have in “<i>gravity and free fall</i>”. Descriptive research design (cross-sectional survey) was used in this study as a method of collecting information. Out of 183 second and third year students, 43 of them were randomly selected and involved in the study. Students were given 10 conceptual based test items relating to “<i>gravity and free fall</i>” to respond to. Students were required to respond true/false and provide reasons for their response. It was found that majority of the students had the misconception that gravity is selective and therefore acts more on heavier objects compared to lighter objects. As a result, they are of the opinion that larger object should hit the ground first before a light object dropped from the same height, which is not scientifically accurate. Based on the findings of the study, it was recommended that physics teachers in BGSHS should carefully pay attention to students’ misconceptions and be guided by it when teaching.