K-6 Science for the Next Generation

Lesson Plans
Acceleration

Learning Objectives

  • Understand the concept of acceleration as a change in velocity.
  • Describe how acceleration can occur in the direction of motion or in the opposite direction.
  • Identify the relationship between force, velocity, and acceleration when riding a bicycle.
  • Explain how changes in direction while maintaining speed affect acceleration.

Introduction and Hook

Begin the lesson by discussing a relatable scenario: riding a bicycle and how pressing the pedals affects speed and direction. This helps students visualize acceleration in real-world terms.

Go to the Lesson

Direct Instruction

Explain the concept of acceleration as a change in velocity, using examples like speeding up and slowing down on a bike. Highlight how acceleration can occur in the direction of motion or opposite to it.

Introduce the video 'What is Acceleration?' to reinforce the concept with visual examples of cars and skateboarders, illustrating positive and negative acceleration.

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Guided Exploration

Engage students with the 'Forces in Action on the Football Field – Quiz Edition' video. Discuss how forces affect motion, speed, and direction using relatable sports examples.

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Facilitate a discussion on how changes in direction while maintaining speed affect acceleration, using the example of turning a corner on a bicycle.

Hands-On Activity

Conduct the 'Paper Airplane Challenge' where students design and test paper airplanes to explore aerodynamics and acceleration.

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Independent Practice

Assign the 'Average Speed' worksheet to reinforce the calculation of speed, distance, and time, enhancing students' understanding of motion concepts.

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Check for Understanding

Use the 'Measuring the Speed of a Marble' activity to assess students' ability to apply concepts of speed and acceleration in a practical setting.

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Review and Reflection

Facilitate a class discussion to review key concepts of acceleration, force, and velocity. Encourage students to share their findings from the hands-on activities.

Assessment and Extension

Conclude with the 'Acceleration' worksheet, focusing on roller coasters to assess students' understanding of acceleration in different contexts.

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Encourage students to take the unit quiz to test their comprehension of the entire Forces and Interactions unit.

Try the Quiz

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