Summary Students rotate through stations exploring different kinds of forces. Science content Physics: Motion and Forces, Newton’s Laws, Gravity (K, 2, 6) Physics: Energy forms, Conservation of Energy (1, 3, 4, 5) Activities in this lesson Catapult from popsicle sticks Magnetic race track Balance point on a stick or ruler Balancing sculpture Dancing magnets Balancing balloon with hairdryer Balancing pole Balloon rocket Catapult - torsion Pinwheel Spinning chair Coin game Levitating magnets Rocket powered by baking soda and vinegar Air resistance Jumping stick Spinning pendulum Hoopster Hand helicopter Procedure Set up a selection of the stations, and divide students into groups, to rotate through the stations. For younger students, show what to do at each station, highlighting the forces in each case. A good selection of Pushes and Pulls stations for Ks: balance point on a paint stick, balancing sculpture, magnetic race track, popsicle stick catapult Older students can be told they will be exploring forces, and leave them to discover phenomena themselves. Force stations relating to Playland amusement park rides: Some stations have things spinning, like spinning rides - hand helicopters, spinning chair, also add a doodle top to make art. One has a pendulum, like ’The Beast’ ride - spinning pendulum. Also stations of hoopster in the hallway, and the balloon and hairdryer. Attached documents forces_stations_worksheet_-_romy.pdf Grades taught Gr K Gr 1 Gr 2 Gr 3 Gr 4 Gr 5 Gr 6 Gr 7
