Why Things Keep Moving or Stay Still

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Objective

I can describe how objects stay still or keep moving unless a push or pull changes them.

Part 1 of 3

Key concepts

3 concepts

  1. 1

    Newton's First Law of Motion explains how objects stay still or keep moving unless a push or pull changes them.

  2. 2

    According to Newton's First Law, an object that is not moving will stay not moving, and an object that is moving will keep moving in the same direction and at the same speed.

  3. 3

    On Earth, things usually slow down because of forces like friction or air resistance, which act against motion.

Part 2 of 3

Practice

10 questions

1

What will happen to a backpack left on the floor if nothing touches it?

2

Imagine a toy car rolling across a very smooth floor. If nothing pushes or pulls it, what will happen to the car?

Part 3 of 3

Exit ticket

Quick comprehension check

Using Newton's First Law of Motion, explain why a backpack sitting on the floor will not move on its own, and why a ball you roll across the floor eventually slows down and stops.

Sample answer included in the free materials

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Teacher guide, student handout, and slides — free, in Google Docs format

  • Teacher Guide

    Complete lesson plan with answer keys and alternate activities

  • Student Handout

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