Stretching springs
I can measure extensions of a spring for a good range of stretching forces.
Stretching springs
I can measure extensions of a spring for a good range of stretching forces.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Applying a force to a spring will make it extend (stretch).
- A range of masses suspended on a mass holder will produce constant and measurable forces on a spring.
- A set square ensures measuring scales are vertical.
- Diagrams show how equipment should be set up.
Keywords
Extension - The extension of a spring is the change in length.
Gravitational force - Masses will have a gravitational force that pulls them downwards.
Hanging masses - Hanging masses (weights) can be used to put a known force onto a spring.
Mass hanger - A mass hanger can be attached to a spring; adding masses to it causes the spring to stretch in a controlled way.
Common misconception
The length of the spring is equal to the extension of the spring.
Focus on the fact that forces cause the length of the spring to change and pupils are measuring the size of that change.
To help you plan your year 9 science lesson on: Stretching springs, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 9 science lesson on: Stretching springs, 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.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
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.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
The change in length of an object when a force acts on it.
A force that pulls objects downwards due to their mass.
Metal discs used to produce forces on a spring.
This is used to attach masses to the end of a spring.
