S2.5.6 For the adult
Air and water resistance
Why does paper fall slowly when a stone falls fast?
What this chapter teaches
Air and water push against things that move through them. A wide, flat thing meets more air or water, so the push is bigger. Fish, boats and birds have smooth, pointed shapes that meet less.
Three questions to ask
There is no one right wording. Listen for the idea.
- Why does a flat card fall more slowly than the same card scrunched up?
- Why are fish and boats pointed?
- How could you feel water pushing against your hand in a bowl?
After the chapter, the learner can
- Make paper spinners and compare how fast they fall
- Explain why fish and boats have smooth, pointed shapes
What they copy into their notebook
Air and water push against things that move through them. This is air resistance and water resistance. A wide, flat thing meets more, so it falls or moves slower. Fish and boats are pointed.