Activity

Defy Gravity

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Test the limits of gravity while encouraging full class participation with this thrilling lesson. Pupils investigate the meaning of work and how it is equivalent to energy. They explore the joule and apply it as a unit of work. They conclude the lesson with activities designed to measure changes in the body's center of mass while performing a vertical jump.

87 Views 65 Downloads NGSS: Adaptable
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Hold a jumping contest to gauge who can jump the highest and farthest; discuss the activity as it relates to gravity
Classroom Considerations
  • Make sure the area used for jumping is not wet and that there is ample space to avoid injury
  • Ensure all participants are capable of performing this activity prior to beginning; if individuals are unable to physically take part, prepare an alternate activity for them
Pros
  • Provides the opportunity to relate gravitational force with everyday occurrences, such as sporting events and daily tasks
  • Multiple assessment questions provide pupils with thorough information so they gain a complete understanding of the concepts presented in this lesson
Cons
  • Document permissions do not allow for printing