A force is a push or a pull. Forces can make objects move, change speed, change direction or change shape.

A force meter is a piece of equipment used to measure the size of a force.  It is also called a newton meter.

A push is a force that moves an object further away.

A pull is a force that brings an object closer.

The size of a force is measured in newtons.

Pushes and pulls

Science

In this Forces and simple machines unit, pupils learn that air resistance, water resistance and friction push back against moving objects. In this Forces unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to accurately describe and explain the actions of forces in a range of situations.

In the Simple forces including magnets unit, pupils learnt to compare how things move on different surfaces. In this Forces including simple machines unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to identify the effects of air resistance, water resistance and friction, that act between moving surfaces

This unit covers the effects of gravity, air resistance, water resistance, and friction on objects. It explores how mechanisms like levers, pulleys, and gears magnify forces. Emphasis is on taking precise measurements, recording complex data, and presenting findings.

Forces including simple machines

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Use of equipment that may require supervision for safety, e.g. scissors in KS1, needles, paint, knives, cooking.

Activity that requires collection of items from an area (room, building).

{{}} can change an object's speed, direction, and/or shape.

Which of these images shows a force meter?

Which of these images shows the smallest force on the force meter?

Which part of a force meter changes length when different forces are applied?

What type of force is the force of gravity?

Which types of forces occur when objects are touching each other? 

all objects are magnetically attracted to Earth.

If you throw a ball in the air, it falls back down to the ground because...

Starting with the smallest, sort these objects into order of increasing strength of their gravitational pull.

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Exploration of objects

Adult supervision required

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

Pushes and pulls

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

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