A distance-time graph is used to show how far an object has travelled over a period of time.

The horizontal axis on a distance-time graph shows the time and the vertical axis shows the distance.

Each axis has a scale which shows the variable name and the minimum and maximum values.

Scales are marked with divisions so that values can be read from the distance-time graph.

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

Reading distance-time graphs

Science

Calculating speed

Measuring speed: practical

Measuring speed accurately

Interpreting distance-time graphs

Changing speed

Newton's First Law

Streamlining

Comparing the speeds of different parachutes

Changing the speed of a parachute

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

Shows the distance something has moved at each moment.

Horizontal or vertical line showing the variable names.

Numbers on an axis showing the minimum and maximum values.

Lines on an axis to allow values to be read from a graph.

Distance moved by an object, divided by the time taken.

What distance has this object travelled after 3 s? Don’t forget to provide the unit in your answer.

The divisions are the same size on both axes.

Which feature of this graph shows that the object is travelling at a constant speed?

How long does it take for this object to travel 5 m? Give your answer to one decimal place. Don’t forget to provide the unit in your answer.

Use the graph to find the average speed of this object.

What distance does this object travel between 1 s and 4 s? Don’t forget to provide the unit in your answer.

Match the symbol for the unit with the property it is used to measure.

Which two pieces of equipment could be used to find the speed of a trolley rolling down a ramp?

Calculate the distance a bicycle travelling at 6.0 m/s will travel in 30 s. 

A runner completes an 800 m race with an average speed of 6.4 m/s. How long did it take to finish the race?

A trolley is rolled a distance of 3.0 m, taking 6.0 s to cover the distance. What is the average speed of the trolley?

Starting with the fastest, put the values in order of average speed.

Reading distance-time graphs

Lesson outcome

Content guidance