K-6 Science for the Next Generation

Lesson Plans
Describing and Predicting Motion

Learning Objectives

  • Understand and describe different types of motion, such as straight-line, back-and-forth, and circular motion.
  • Identify and predict the motion of objects in various contexts, such as a snowboarder in the air or a bowling ball rolling down a lane.
  • Relate real-life examples of motion, such as playground activities and sports, to scientific concepts of motion.
  • Use descriptive language to explain how objects move, including terms like bounce, roll, and spiral.

Introduction and Hook

Begin the lesson by discussing the various types of motion students experience in their daily lives, such as playing on a swing or watching a ball roll.

Go to the Lesson

Introduce the concept of motion using the example of a snowboarder in mid-air, highlighting how their position changes.

Direct Instruction

Explain different types of motion such as straight-line, back-and-forth, and circular motion using real-life examples like a bowling ball or a carousel.

Use the video 'How Things Move' to illustrate fundamental concepts of force and motion, making complex ideas accessible to early elementary students.

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Guided Exploration

Engage students in a discussion about how different objects move, using descriptive language such as bounce, roll, and spiral.

Watch the video 'Forces in the Playground' to explore how swings, slides, and seesaws illustrate different types of motion and the forces involved.

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Hands-On Activity

Conduct a hands-on activity where students classify different playground motions as straight-line, back-and-forth, or circular.

Use the 'Measure and Describe Motion' assessment to have students explore how modifications affect motion by dropping sheets of paper and measuring time.

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Independent Practice

Assign students to observe and describe the motion of objects in their environment, using vocabulary like bounce, roll, and spiral.

Encourage students to predict the motion of a ball in a game of catch, considering factors like speed and direction.

Check for Understanding

Use the 'Describing Motion' assessment to evaluate students' ability to articulate different types of movement and identify images depicting motion.

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Review and Reflection

Facilitate a class discussion reflecting on the different types of motion observed and described during the lesson.

Encourage students to share their experiences and insights on how motion is observed in everyday activities.

Assessment and Extension

Administer the 'Positions and Directions' assessment to evaluate students' spatial awareness and ability to communicate directions effectively.

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Encourage students to explore further by watching the video 'Forces in Action on the Football Field – Quiz Edition' to understand how forces affect motion in sports.

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Conclude with the Unit Quiz to test comprehension and reinforce learning.

Try the Quiz

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