A simple experiment using multiple sizes and shapes of balls can help students see the relationship between gravity and mass. This experiment requires a demonstration of simultaneously dropping two balls of the same mass. After the students discuss the results of the demonstration, they experiment in pairs by dropping different-sized balls at the same time. Each pair, after tracking the results on a chart, shares them with the rest of the class.
Friction is the resistance to motion that occurs when two objects move against each other. Inertia, described by Newton's first law, is an object's resistance to change its movement except under force -- the more mass something has, the greater its inertia. Explaining these concepts serves as an introduction to an experiment, suggested by A.C. Gilbert's Discovery Village, a nonprofit children's museum in Salem, Oregon. In small groups, students participate in toy car races using different surfaces placed on a ramp. For example, they may compare how far the car moves down the ramp when covered in a piece of felt versus sandpaper. At the end, the fifth-graders should realize that different surfaces create more friction, which acts as a force to stop a toy car's movement.
Roller coasters provide thrilling examples in lessons on force and motion. After showing footage or photos of roller coasters in action, small groups of students can create their own with pieces of cardboard, paper towel rolls and similar materials. After the students complete and test their coasters with toy cars, they can demonstrate their models for the rest of the class. A discussion -- of what worked, what didn't and why -- will reinforce the students' knowledge of motion and force.
Instead of introducing Newton and his laws of motion through lecture or textbook reading alone, fifth-graders can interview him. For this activity, the students sit in a circle and the teacher takes on the role of Newton to ensure accurate answers. Each student takes turns asking "Newton" teacher-provided questions, queries brainstormed as a class or both.