Forces Showdown: You vs. Gravity!

Forces - Gravity Showdown - Class #2

This class is the second in a series of science showdowns. Students are welcome to take a class in the Showdown series in any order. However, information discussed in Showdown: You vs. Large Forces will be used as a foundation for later classes in the series.

After meeting and greeting everyone, I will begin by reviewing the concepts of gravity and center of gravity. I connect with the students' prior knowledge about gravity through the use of real-life examples, images and video clips.

Following this, I will explain a series of challenges (mini-games) designed to test the students' understanding of gravity. The challenges involve balancing our bodies in different situations as well as balancing different objects. After each explanation, I will ask the students to attempt the challenge on their own. Students will then report back to the class about their experience vs. gravity. This will be followed by a discussion on how gravity effected the challenges.

After all the challenges have been completed and discussed, I will share additional "bonus" challenges and encourage students to attempt these alone or with their family after class ends.

Each student will receive a written list of all completed challenges as well as the "bonus" challenges.