Reaction time is easily measured in this fun lab. But rather than using a stopwatch, we take advantage of physics and calculate the time segment by measuring the distance the ruler falls before it's caught. Is reaction time a reflex? Nope. The difference between the two is discussed within the activity.
 
Questions Answered:
What's the difference between reaction time and reflexes? 
Can reaction time improve with practice? 
How can reaction time be measured?
 
Topics Addressed:
Reaction time is a measure of how quickly you're able to respond to a signal. 
Reflexes are a nearly instantaneous response to a stimulus. 
Both reflexes and reaction times are fairly fixed and don't improve with practice.
 
Materials Needed
meter stick, friend
 
Preparation Time
none
 
Teaching Time 
About 20–30 minutes, longer with included writing assignment
 
Answer Key
Yes! Plus extensive teacher notes address the many questions that come up. You shouldn’t have to do outside research on this topic unless you want to. Specific charts and graphic organizers have keys. 
 
Target Audience
Middle School Students, Ages 11-14
 
Student Sheets
Scaffolded writing prompts & lab reporting 
Diagrams for labeling