A small wheeled object used to investigate movement.

The steepness of a slope, the larger the gradient the steeper a slope is.

A device used to precisely measure time, usually to 0.1 s or 0.01 s.

The overall distance travelled divided by the overall time for a journey.

Measuring speed: practical

Science

In the Measuring and calculating motion unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn how to measure and calculate velocity and acceleration, and how to interpret velocity-time graphs. 

In the Forces unit, pupils learn to accurately describe and explain the actions of forces in a range of situations. 

This unit explores speed, forces, and motion, including effects on objects. It covers deriving equations, calculations, and distance-time graphs. Learn to use force arrows, identify balanced and unbalanced forces, and understand their impact on movement.

Moving by force

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

A wheeled object used to investigate motion.

A measure of the steepness of a slope or ramp.

Overall distance travelled divided by overall time taken.

Which feature of a dynamics trolly allows it to roll without slowing down much?

The ramp must have a high gradient (be steep).

Look along the ramp from the start to the finish line.

Start the trolley rolling with a countdown.

Which of these measures should be taken to accurately measure the time it takes for a dynamics trolley to roll between two points on a ramp?

A dynamics trolley is rolled a distance of 1.5 m, taking 3.0 s to cover the distance. What is the average speed of the trolley?

The ramp is producing a force on the trolley which speeds it up as it rolls.

The forces on the trolley are always balanced.

The greater the gradient, the smaller the resultant force acting on the trolley.

The greater the gradient, the larger the resultant force acting on the trolley.

The frictional force keeps the trolley moving.

A dynamics trolley is released on ramps with different gradients and is found to have a greater average speed  on the steepest ramp. Which of these statements help explain the results?

A student times a trolley rolling 1.00 m down a ramp three times. The times were 3.24 s, 3.44 s and 3.36 s. Calculate the average speed of the trolley. 

Ball A has a greater average speed than ball B.

Ball A has a lower average speed than ball B.

Two balls roll the same distance; ball A takes 4 s and ball B takes 3 s. Which statements are correct?

Which pieces of information are needed to find the average speed of a toy car rolling across a desk?

Five swimmers complete a 200 m race. Their finish times are shown. Starting with the fastest, put the racers in order of average speed.

A bus is travelling at 2 m/s and moves for a time of 30 s. Which of these shows how to calculate the distance the bus has travelled?

A skater in a race travels a distance of 800 m in a time of 125 s. Calculate their speed.

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Measuring speed: practical

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.