Forces and Magnetism
26th September 2024
In Year 4, we are currently learning about forces and magnetism. This week, we conducted a detailed experiment about surface friction. The children wrote an aim and hypothesis, after discussing the experiment’s method and apparatus. They also used their prior knowledge about surfaces and friction.
In small groups, they then used the science enquiry area of comparative and fair testing to see how much friction different surfaces created when a toy car rolled down a slope. They measured the height of the changing slope with rulers, and recorded their results.
Their discoveries varied a little, and we discussed the variables and reasons for the discrepancies. Mostly, we discovered that the smooth surface of the wooden board, with no coverings, had the least amount of friction, while either the sandpaper or sawdust created the most amount of friction for the car.
The children did a fabulous job recording the experiment using correct scientific vocabulary and methods!
