Science·Forces & Motion·conceptual
Relative Motion
Explain relative motion — how the apparent speed and direction of an object depends on the observer's own motion — using everyday examples such as trains and cars passing
Suggested ages 11–12
Evidence of understanding
- Explains why a train moving at the same speed in the same direction as another appears stationary to passengers on that train
- Calculates relative speed when two objects move towards or away from each other
- Explains why the frame of reference matters when describing motion
Assessment prompt
If Relative Motion was on a train and another train passed going the same direction but faster, could they explain why it looks slow even if it's actually travelling at high speed?
Standards alignment
KS3.Sci.Phys.MotionAndForces.3GB · uk-nc-2013
Relative Motion
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · KS3