In this work it is proposed an activity to analyze non linear characteristics curves obtained with gym latex elastic. Force as function of deformation were characterized for four different types of elastics (the higher resistance force, upper intermediate, lower intermediate and the lowest resistance force). Each group of a class had one type of elastic and one linear spring to characterize. At the end, there was performed a collective construction on the blackboard with the group´s results. The class results were compared to the manufacturer predictions. The majority of students agreed the black elastic presented the highest force resistance. According to the discussions and results of post quiz it could be observed that the students had in mind the Hooke´s law and linear materials; however, it was completely new the behavior of elastics, the linearity presented only in some intervals of deformation, and moreover, the hysteresis of elastics. In general students agreed that the activity was interesting and it could aggregate new information. The teacher staff thinks that it was a good way of practicing graph modeling and developing graph interpretation analysis competence.
Elastic force. Non linear materials. Educational data mining. Gym latex elastics.
