7th Grade Science Guide

7.1: Field Forces 3 Dimensions & Progressions

Unit 2

Activity: Gravity & Inertia Video Clip

Objective:

●​ I can explain the center of gravity of an object. ●​ I can explain that all objects attract each other.

●​ Students watch a short video clip about gravitational force and how all objects attract each other.

●​ Video Clip

Activity: Gravity & Orbits PHET Simulation

Objective

Overview

Materials

●​ Lesson Plan ●​ PHET Simulation ●​ Student Lab Sheet

●​ I can make a claim about how changes to mass on the sun, moon and earth change gravitation pull.

●​ Students use a simulation to vary the mass of the sun, the moon, and the earth and explain how these changes affect the gravitational pull in the system.

OPTIONAL

●​ 3’ - 4’ circular frame ●​ spandex/lycra cloth ●​ Spring clamps ●​ Solid chrome steel balls of various diameters ●​ Shoot a cannonball into orbit!

Activity: Gravity & Force PHET Simulation

Objective

Overview

Materials

●​ I can use evidence to support a claim about

●​ Students visualize the gravitational force that

●​ Lesson Plan ●​ PHET Simulation

how mass affects gravitational pull.

two objects exert on each other,and adjust the properties of the masses to see how it affects the gravitational attraction.

Phenomena Assessment: Gravity & Inertia

Objective

Overview

Materials