Science·Forces & Motion·conceptual
Air Resistance & Friction
Identify the effects of air resistance, water resistance, and friction, and understand that these forces act between moving surfaces to oppose motion
Suggested ages 9–10
Learning journey
Your child is learning about gravity and forces that resist motion like friction and air resistance, while discovering how simple machines like levers and pulleys can make tasks easier.
Evidence of understanding
- Define air resistance, water resistance, and friction as forces that oppose motion
- Give everyday examples of each force and explain how they slow things down
- Describe how these forces depend on factors like speed, surface area, or surface texture
Assessment prompt
Can Air Resistance & Friction explain why a parachute slows you down, why swimming is harder than walking, and why bike brakes use rubber pads?
Standards alignment
Y5.Sci.F.2GB · uk-nc-2013
Air resistance, water resistance and friction
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2