Science·Forces & Motion·conceptual
Friction & Surfaces
Compare how things move on different surfaces, noticing that some surfaces create more friction than others
Suggested ages 7–8
Learning journey
Your child is exploring forces around them — discovering how magnets work, understanding that some forces need contact while others work at a distance, and investigating how different surfaces affect how things move.
Evidence of understanding
- Observe and compare how the same object moves on at least three different surfaces
- Describe that rough surfaces slow objects down more than smooth surfaces
- Use the word 'friction' to explain why movement differs on different surfaces
Assessment prompt
Can Friction & Surfaces explain why a toy car rolls further on a smooth wooden floor than on carpet?
Standards alignment
Y3.Sci.FM.1GB · uk-nc-2013
Movement on different surfaces
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2