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

Air resistance is a type of friction force which acts between the air and the surface of an object.

A fair test investigation is where only one thing is changed, to see what effect that has on the results of the investigation.

In a conclusion, scientists explain what the results show or mean.

Air resistance: do and review

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.

Which of these is not a reason that scientists repeat tests?  

an explanation of how to do the investigation

Match the part of the investigation write-up to the content you might find there.

The {{}} of an object is the total area taken up by all of its surfaces added together.

the smaller the surface area, the greater the air resistance

the greater the surface area, the lower the air resistance

the greater the surface area, the greater the air resistance

How does surface area affect air resistance on moving objects?

Why are aeroplanes designed to be long and thin?  

Objects which are short and wide have {{}} surface areas compared to long thin shapes.

the force between the surface of a flying bird and the air

the force between moving roller skate wheels and the floor

Scientists control all but {{}} variable in a fair test investigation.

What does air resistance do to moving objects?  

Match whether engineers would want to maximise or minimise air resistance to the correct situation:

Which of these pictures shows the direction of air resistance correctly? 

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

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

Air resistance: do and review

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

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