K-6 Science for the Next Generation

Lesson Plans
What is Work?

Learning Objectives

  • Define 'work' in the context of physics and differentiate it from the everyday use of the term.
  • Explain how work is calculated based on the force applied and the distance moved by an object.
  • Identify examples of work being done in everyday situations, such as lifting objects against gravity.
  • Describe the role of gravity in work involving objects moving vertically, such as a coconut falling from a tree.
  • Discuss how the magnitude of force and distance influence the amount of work done on an object.

Introduction and Hook

Begin the lesson by discussing the everyday use of the term 'work' and how it differs in physics. This introduction sets the stage for understanding the scientific concept of work.

Go to the Lesson

Engage students with a thought experiment: Ask them to imagine lifting a box and discuss what factors might affect the effort required.

Direct Instruction

Explain the scientific definition of work as force applied over a distance, using examples like lifting a box or a weightlifter lifting a barbell.

Introduce the formula for calculating work and discuss how force and distance influence the amount of work done.

Guided Exploration

Explore real-world examples of work, such as a coconut falling from a tree, to illustrate the role of gravity in work.

Watch videos to visualize these concepts in action. These videos help students connect theoretical knowledge with practical examples.

Video thumbnail

Hands-On Activity

Conduct an experiment to measure the force required to move objects across different surfaces. This activity reinforces the concept of work and how surface texture affects it.

Assessment thumbnail

Independent Practice

Assign students to complete worksheets that involve calculating work done in various scenarios. This practice helps solidify their understanding of the relationship between force, distance, and work.

Assessment thumbnail

Check for Understanding

Facilitate a class discussion to review key concepts and address any misconceptions. Use targeted questions to assess students' grasp of the material.

Review and Reflection

Encourage students to reflect on what they have learned about work and how it applies to everyday activities. This reflection helps consolidate their understanding.

Assessment and Extension

Administer a quiz to evaluate students' comprehension of the topic. This assessment provides insights into their understanding and areas that may need further review.

Try the Quiz

For further exploration, provide students with an assessment pack that includes activities on simple machines and their role in making work easier.

Get the Assessment Pack

Custom Subscription Plan

Please reach out to your dedicated support agent to make changes to your custom subscription plan.

Free Usage Limit Reached!

You have reached the usage limit under a free subscription. 
This will reset in 1 hour. 
Please try again later, or consider upgrading your account. Thanks!

Password Reset Successfully!

You are now signed in to NGScience. Enjoy!

Reset Password

Enter the email address associated with your account.

Subscription Update Error

There was an error updating the subscription.

Subscription Updated

Your subscription was successfully updated. Enjoy!

Insufficient Privelages

You are not authorized to make changes to the subscription plan of this account. 
Please contact the appropriate administrator.

Manage Subscription

Prices are in US Dollars.

Free

  • Limited daily access
  • 10% off all eBook purchases

Home

  • Unlimited and unrestricted access
  • Printable assessments with answer keys
  • 20% off all eBook purchases
  • Email support

Classroom

  • Unlimited and unrestricted access
  • Printable assessments with answer keys
  • 30% off all eBook purchases
  • Email support

School

  • Unlimited and unrestricted access
  • Printable assessments with answer keys
  • 40% off all eBook purchases
  • Dedicated support agent

Sign In

Account Limit Reached!

Your account does not have any available slots remaining to add a new user.

You can:
• remove and existing user to free up a slot.
• upgrade your plan or contact us.

Remove User

You are about to remove the following users accounts:

THIS CANNOT BE UNDONE

Registration Complete!

You are now signed in to NGScience. Enjoy!

Create an Account

Enter your email to create a free account with NG Science.

or

Activity Complete

Try again for a perfect score