These engaging worksheets can be used when investigating how different surfaces affect friction and the distance an object can travel.

Students will plan their investigation and select test surfaces such as sandpaper, plastic wrap, carpet, a desk, grass and ice (if possible). They will need to release their chosen object down a ramp that can be constructed from simple materials like a stack of books. Using tape measures, your students will record the distance travelled on each surface.

The resource includes two versions of the observations page. One provides some extra tabling and graphing support. When you have chosen which version of the page to give to which students, you can print it along with the rest of the worksheets, gather the equipment needed and start the activity.

Afterwards, your students can complete the basic evaluation of the investigation, which encourages reflection and critical thinking.

This resource is part of our Physical Sciences Year 4 UNIT PLAN.