S2.5.2 For the adult

Measuring forces

How can I tell how big a pull is?

What this chapter teaches

A rubber band stretches more for a bigger pull, so its stretch measures the pull. A band and a ruler make a force meter. Force is measured in newtons, written N, and a small apple weighs about 1 newton.

Three questions to ask

There is no one right wording. Listen for the idea.

  1. What do you expect when you put one more stone in the cup, and why?
  2. Why does the same pull give the same stretch each time?
  3. How would you use a force meter to compare two bags?

After the chapter, the learner can

  • Make a force meter with a rubber band and a ruler
  • Explain that forces are measured in newtons

What they copy into their notebook

A rubber band stretches more for a bigger pull. A band and a ruler make a force meter. Force is measured in newtons, written N. A small apple weighs about 1 newton.

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