The motion of an object can be described by its position, direction, and speed. One or more forces cause changes in speed or direction. By exploring and experimenting with a variety of objects, small vehicles, and equipment, students enhance their understanding of the relationship between the mass and motion of an object and the forces acting on it. Students design experiments, collect and record data, use measuring instruments, organize and interpret information, make hypotheses, and solve problems. Students may connect these principles and concepts by building and launching a model rocket or designing a moving vehicle.
Students find examples of forces that are produced using elasticity and springs.
Students use springs or elastic bands to design and construct a device to measure force. Using plastic cove molding or curtain rods, students set up a track for marbles, roll marbles of various masses down the track, and measure the time taken and distance covered for each. They demonstrate their scientific skills and processes when they participate in demonstrations and experiments, and design procedures for investigating forces in situations outside the classroom. The teacher provides regular opportunities for students to review, monitor, and update their plans, and arranges ways for them to celebrate their progress and accomplishments. These resources are those that have been evaluated since 1992.