Instructional Video

The Physics Behind a Curveball - The Magnus Effect

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Need to put a new spin on your motion lesson plan? Add a short video from an engaging physics playlist! Your class will get a kick out of examining the science behind a soccer curveball. Scholars discover how the movement of air at different points around the ball create the Magnus effect.

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CCSS: Adaptable
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Invite a soccer player from your school to demonstrate the curveball for pupils
  • Have the class predict what would happen if a soccer player performed the same kick under different conditions, such as high altitude
Classroom Considerations
  • Consider recreating the diagram showing how the ball curves to give learners a chance to study it more closely; the video moves quickly during this segment
  • This video is hosted on YouTube
Pros
  • Physical demonstrations of the curveball do an excellent job of conveying the content
  • The topic is fun for students of all ages
Cons
  • None
Common Core