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Year 5 - Science

Friction: do and review

Forces including simple machines

Unit Summary

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.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to carry out an investigation into friction and evaluate the results.

Key Notes

  • Scientists carry out investigations to measure and compare the amount of friction created between different surfaces.
  • The results from an investigation can be recorded in different ways, including tables and graphs.
  • The findings from an investigation can be summarised into a conclusion.
  • Objects experience more friction when moving across rough surfaces compared to smooth surfaces.
  • Test results can be used to make predictions to set up further investigations.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • surface: The surface is the top or outside layer of an object or material.
  • friction: Friction is a force that acts between surfaces.
  • variable: A variable is something that can be changed, measured or kept the same in an investigation.
  • conclusion: In a conclusion, scientists explain what the results show and what they mean.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • All graphs can be used to present all types of data.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the scientific idea in this lesson using two key points.

Scientists carry out investigations to measure and compare the amount of friction created between different surfaces. The results from an investigation can be recorded in different ways, including tables and graphs.

2. Define this scientific word and use it in context. 'surface'

The surface is the top or outside layer of an object or material. Include the word in a full scientific explanation, not as a single label.

3. Correct this common scientific misunderstanding.

Mistake: All graphs can be used to present all types of data. Correction: Examples given of different types of graph and sample data.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 5 Science guide library.