Floating, mass and shape
I can explain how the density of an object determines how well it floats.
Floating, mass and shape
I can explain how the density of an object determines how well it floats.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- The whole of an object is floating on water if part of it is above the surface.
- How well an object floats in a liquid does not depend on the depth of the liquid.
- An object floats in water if its shape can push its own mass of water out of the way without going under.
Keywords
Upthrust - A force acting upwards due to pressure is an upthrust.
Displaced - Water is displaced (moved) when an object floats on it or sinks in it.
Displacement can - A displacement can is used to find the volume of water displaced by objects when they float or sink.
Density - If the density of an object is less than the density of water, it will float.
Common misconception
Pupils may think that all light objects float and that all heavy objects sink.
Explore how mass and volume (determined by shape) affect whether objects float or sink - before discussing density.
To help you plan your year 9 science lesson on: Floating, mass and shape, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 9 science lesson on: Floating, mass and shape, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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Explore more key stage 3 science lessons from the Hidden forces unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
A force acting on a floating object due to water pressure.
Moved away from its normal position.
Used to find the volume or mass of displaced water.
If this is high an object will sink.
