The acceleration of an object is the change in velocity per second.

The velocity of an object is the change in displacement per second.

A dynamics trolley is a wheeled object used in experiments. It moves very smoothly over flat surfaces.

Measuring acceleration practical (v=s/t, a = Δv/t)

Combined science

In the Energy of moving objects unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn how to calculate the amount of energy of objects have because they are moving, stretched or in a gravitational field; and to calculate energy transfers using knowledge of energy conservation and dissipation.

In the Moving by force unit, pupils learnt how to calculate speed and describe motion using distance-time graphs, apply Newton’s First Law of motion and calculate the amount of energy needed to move an object to a new position.

Measuring and calculating motion

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

the speed of an object in a particular direction

the symbol used to represent change in velocity

Match the following key words or phrases to their definitions.

Match the following quantities to their definitions.

acceleration = change in velocity ÷ time

acceleration = change in velocity × time

Which of the following are correct equations for acceleration ($$a$$)?

A car takes 17.6 s to accelerate from 0 m/s to 44 m/s.
Calculate the acceleration of the car in m/s$$^2$$.
You do not need to include the unit in your answer.

A motorcycle reduces its velocity from 25 m/s to 14 m/s in 5.5 s.
Which of the following is the deceleration of the motorcycle?

A cricket ball moving at 20 m/s is hit by a bat, and then travels in the opposite direction at 15 m/s. The impact lasts for 0.05 s.
Calculate the acceleration.
You do not need to enter the unit.

What is the international standard unit used to measure speed and velocity in physics?
Give the symbol.

Which of the following is a vector quantity?

A lorry is travelling along a straight road. Its speed increases from 5.6 m/s to 8.4 m/s.
Which of the following is the change in velocity for the lorry? 

A roller–skater covers a distance of 520 m in 40 s.
Which of the following is the speed of the roller–skater?

How far will a wind-up toy travel if it moving at a speed of 0.02 m/s for 1 minute? 
Include a correct unit with your answer.

A rocket covers a distance of 500 m whilst travelling at 5.0 km/s.
Which of the following is the time taken for the rocket to cover this distance?

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

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

Measuring acceleration practical (v=s/t, a = Δv/t)

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

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