ALEX Learning Activity Resources

   View Standards     Standard(s): [SC2015] PS8 (8) 8 :

8 ) Use Newton's first law to demonstrate and explain that an object is either at rest or moves at a constant velocity unless acted upon by an external force (e.g., model car on a table remaining at rest until pushed).

The students will measure the speed of a tennis ball as it rolls across a flat surface.  Students will learn that because of inertia, an object tends to maintain its motion.

This activity results from the ALEX Resource Development Summit. 

   View Standards     Standard(s): [SC2015] PS8 (8) 8 :

8 ) Use Newton's first law to demonstrate and explain that an object is either at rest or moves at a constant velocity unless acted upon by an external force (e.g., model car on a table remaining at rest until pushed).

The activity can be used to introduce Newton's first law of motion. The teacher will demonstrate the different ways in which a car can roll down a ramp and the resulting effects of each trial. The students will perform a quick write before each trial to make predictions about the outcomes. The students will also explain why the trials were different after the car was rolled three times. Newton's first law and inertia are the focal points of this activity.

This activity is a result of the ALEX Resource Development Summit.

   View Standards     Standard(s): [SC2015] PS8 (8) 8 :

8 ) Use Newton's first law to demonstrate and explain that an object is either at rest or moves at a constant velocity unless acted upon by an external force (e.g., model car on a table remaining at rest until pushed).

This learning activity will allow students to observe Newton's First Law of Motion as they watch a video clip. While the video plays, the students will define vocabulary associated with the first law and record the information on a foldable (unbalanced force, mass, inertia, and weight). Then, the students will participate in a series of activities that will demonstrate Newton's First Law of Motion. For example, in the activity "Flick a Note Card", students should observe that the coin is at rest on the card, then once a force makes it move, it falls into a cup. The students will explain a series of activities in the middle of the foldable. Finally, the students will share their results and discuss how Newton's First Law relates to their own personal experiences.

This activity was created as a result of the GAP Resource Summit.