Gravity Lesson Plans

Fifth graders record at least four hypotheses concerning what happens when they drop an egg from a high spot. They record at least five observations or supporting ideas about the egg drop. Students test gravity by dropping an egg from a ladder and record their results with 100% accuracy. They complete the experiment and create a KWL chart and write an entry in their journal.

Students work with boxes and weights to find the center of gravity. In this simple center of gravity experiment, students find success in using weights to move the center of gravity. Students will be assessed at the end of the lesson as to how the center of gravity changes.

Learners complete calculations involving the structure and properties of matter. They engage in a variety of problem solving activities to help them determine the center of gravity.

Students complete calculus calculations involving the structure and properties of matter and determining the center of gravity.

Students watch experiments to define gravity and what gravity's function. In this gravity lesson plan, students watch video segments about experiments conducted with two objects to see what gravity does with different masses.  

Students examine planetary movement and its relation to the tide.In this gravity lesson students describe how and why the high and low tides change every day.

Eighth graders participate in several game like activities. The first, Planetary Orbit Race," involves two students holding a 12 meter rope. One member remains in their spot while the other races around in a circle. The rope represents gravity, the runner is a planet. The second activity, "Comet Time Trials," simulates a comets' orbit about the sun, and the third, "Weightless Ball," they simulate anti-gravity by keeping a beach ball aloft.

Through a series of experiments and demonstrations, fifth graders will learn about gravity. They will make predictions, drop various objects, write down their observations, and try to understand gravity through balance. This lesson seems as though it is intended for a summer or after school program. However, the experiments are sound and would compliment any lesson on gravity.

Seventh graders explain how the force of gravity works. In this earth science lesson, 7th graders perform a computer simulation on a court scene involving gravity. They answer questions using the interactive software and come up with a verdict in the end.

Students measure motion. For this gravity and motion lesson, students make a simple pendulum and use the TI-73 calculator to calculate how acceleration varies with pendulum length. Students record data from their experiments on the provided chart and step by step instructions on using the TI-73 are included.