At time t = 0, a particle is projected vertically upwards with speed u m s–1 from a point 10 m above the ground. At time T seconds, the particle hits the ground with speed 17.5 m s–1. Find the value of u and T and evaluate the model. (AS mechanics)

This is a classic suvat question that will most definately appear in the studnets exam without fail. To begin I would list all the values I have and notice that the ball being modelled as a particle denotes the fact the acceleration in this scenario will be g. Then I would use the equation v^2=u^2+2as to solve for u, and then use this value of u and the equation v=u+at to solve for T.
The follow up question of this being evaluate the model is extremely common in our new spec and the answer will nearly always be similar, in this case: 'the ball being modelled as a particle is not accurate as this assumes the ball wont experinece any form of drag or air resistance, when in reality it will resulting in the acceleration being less than the value of g (9.81)