How Can We Predict Patterns of Motion?
How Can We Predict Patterns of Motion? is part of Smithsonian Science for the Classroom, a brand-new curriculum series by the Smithsonian Science Education Center. It is aligned to a group of grade 3 standards. It has a focus on physical science with a secondary focus on engineering. In this module, students:
- Ask questions about what causes objects to move
- Predict patterns of motion of a pendulum
- Investigate forces that can act at a distance
- Investigate the properties of permanent magnets and electromagnets
- Design a solution to a problem that can be solved using a magnet
- Ask questions about and investigate how magnets affect a steel pendulum’s motion
Below are digital resources that support teaching of this module.
The Playground
Download Video
This video allows students to observe the motion of playground equipment in use.
Drawing Force Diagrams
Download PDF
This file provides general directions for creating force diagrams.
Tug-of-War
Download Video
This video shows a short tug-of-war game.
Tug-of-War Board
Download PDF
This is an image of the tug-of-war board that students will create and use.
Tug-of-War Card
Download PDF
This is a sample Tug-of-War card for the investigation
Patterns of Motion
Download Video
This video shows examples of back-and-forth and circular patterns of motion.
Pushing a Swing
Download Video
This video shows an adult pushing a child on a tire swing.
Pendulum Clock
Download Video
This video shows the repeating pattern of motion of a clock's pendulum.
Crazy Compass
Download Video
This video shows a compass needle spinning around.
Magnetic Force Strength Test
Download File
The photos in this file illustrate how students will test magnet strength at distance.
Junkyard Magnet
Download Video
This video shows a magnetic trash-sorting device in use.
Dynamic Duo Swing Investigation
Download PDF
This file provides the basis for the two possible investigation paths.
Comic Strip Template
https://www.teachingideas.co.uk/art/comic-strip-templates
This website provides a template for creating comic strip books. Scroll down to the bottom of the site to access the template.
Kit Tips & Tricks