Newton...He Can Be Fun

By Bartley Richardson •

Grade Level	9th
Subject Area	Physical Science
Duration	70 minutes (one class period)
Setting	Classroom
Background Knowledge	It is recommended that studnets have some experience with Newton's Three Laws of Motion, the equation F=ma, and rearranging algebraic equations to solve for a desired variable.
Author	Bartley Richardson

Summary
This lesson was designed to serve as a review of Newton’s Three Laws of Motion. It seeks to provide real-life examples (hovercrafts and cars) to reinforce the concepts of motion and friction at a 9 th grade level. The activity is broken into four mini-labs which occur at four different stations spread across a normal classroom.

Objectives
Students will be able to 1. Identify and describe Newton’s Three Laws of Motion. 2. Apply Newton’s Three Laws of Motion to the correct situation. 3. Use the equation F = ma to solve for force (F), mass (m), or acceleration (a). 4. Determine the result of a zero net force acting on an object. 5. Determine the effect of friction on the motion of an object at constant acceleration. 6. Identify “equal and opposite” forces. 7. Accurately and effectively report their results in scientific language. 8. Make conclusions about the physical world from observations in the lab setting.

Materials Required
Newton…He Can Be Fun! Packet (1 per student) Step-by-step instructions Worksheets Newton…He Can Be Fun! Grading Rubric (1 per student) Radio controlled mini-hovercraft (2 total) Skateboards (2 total) Radio controlled car (1 total) Force spring (1 total) Two weights (20g and 50g) Materials to set-up lab Sand paper Duct tape Wire

Ohio Standards

Science
Physical Sciences
Benchmark D - Explain the movement of objects by applying Newton’s three laws of motion.
Mathematics

Mathematical Process Standard
Benchmark B - Apply mathematical knowledge and skills routinely in other content areas and practical situations.

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