Science·Forces & Motion·conceptual
Newton's First & Second Laws
State and apply Newton's First Law (an object stays at rest or constant velocity unless acted on by a resultant force) and Second Law (force = mass × acceleration), including the relationship between mass, force, and acceleration
Suggested ages 12–13
Evidence of understanding
- States Newton's First Law and gives a real example (e.g. why a moving spacecraft doesn't need engines in space)
- Uses F = ma to calculate force, mass, or acceleration given the other two quantities
- Explains why a heavier object requires more force to achieve the same acceleration
- Explains why seatbelts are needed in cars using Newton's First Law
Assessment prompt
If Newton's First & Second Laws was asked why you need a seatbelt in a car but not when sitting still, could they explain what Newton's First Law says about moving objects — and then calculate how much force a 60 kg person experiences in a sudden stop?
Standards alignment
MS-PS2-1US · ngss-ms
MS-PS2-1
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Middle School
MS-PS2-2US · ngss-ms
MS-PS2-2
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Middle School
KS3.Sci.Phys.MotionAndForces.7GB · uk-nc-2013
Newton's Laws of Motion
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · KS3