Stretching rubber
I can investigate the extension of a rubber band, and compare the behaviour to that of a spring.
Stretching rubber
I can investigate the extension of a rubber band, and compare the behaviour to that of a spring.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- A rubber band is elastic because it returns to its original length when a force is removed.
- The extension of a rubber band increases different amounts for each equal sized increase in force.
- The extension of a spring is not directly proportional to the force applied.
- The extension pattern is explained by the behaviour of molecular chains in the rubber.
Keywords
Extension - The extension of a rubber band is its change in length.
Directly proportional - Variables are directly proportional when one is a constant multiple of the other.
Elastic - A rubber band is elastic; it returns to its original length after forces are removed from it.
Long molecular chains - Rubber contains long molecular chains, that uncoil when it stretches.
Common misconception
Pupils find it challenging to link the shape of a line graph with physical change in the real world.
Compare two sections of the graph, using the amount of extra stretch per newton as a measure of how easy the rubber band is to stretch.
To help you plan your year 9 science lesson on: Stretching rubber, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 9 science lesson on: Stretching rubber, 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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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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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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Adult supervision required
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Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
material returns to its original length after forces are removed
the increase in length when a material is stretched
when one variable increases, the other increases at the same rate
the structure of rubber
