Explore Balanced and Unbalanced Forces

Balanced and unbalanced forces are the unseen puppeteers that guide the movements of objects around us. Learning about these forces is like unlocking the secret code to the physics of motion. Whether it’s a leaf fluttering to the ground or a rocket soaring into the sky, every action is under the influence of these forces.

This 16-slide teaching presentation covers everything your students need to know about balanced and unbalanced forces and the effect these have on the motion of objects. The slide deck contains engaging content and visually appealing photographs and diagrams to explain each of the concepts presented in an age-appropriate way.

The slide deck addresses the following content:

• What is a force?
• How does force affect motion?
• How can motion change?
• What is net force?
• What are balanced forces?
• What are unbalanced forces?
• What are invisible forces?

Icons have been used on the slides to indicate when students need to take notes, have a discussion or put their new knowledge into practice. Three quiz questions are included at the end of the presentation so students can informally check their understanding of the content presented.

By engaging with this balanced and unbalanced forces slide deck, students will develop a deeper understanding of the mysteries of motion.

Balanced and Unbalanced Forces in the Real World

While it’s helpful to read about balanced and unbalanced forces and how they work, it’s even more helpful to see these forces in action!

Once you have completed the slide deck, why not take your students outside to see balanced and unbalanced forces in action around the school? Students could sketch objects where the forces are balanced (at rest) or unbalanced (speeding up), using arrows to represent the direction of the forces and annotations to describe the net force. Students could even create scenarios for others to draw, such as pushing an item of playground equipment or using a piece of sporting equipment. Not only will they be getting some movement and fresh air outdoors, but they’ll also be exploring the wonders of physics in a real-world context!

Download This Force and Motion Slide Deck

Use the Download button to access the Google Slides version of this resource. (Note: You will be prompted to make a copy of the Google Slides presentation before accessing it.)

Project the resource onto your screen and work through the slides as a class for a paperless science lesson!

This resource was created by David Steffes, a Teach Starter collaborator.

Save Time with More Forces Resources

If you need more time back in your day, you’ve come to the right place! Click below to explore more teacher-made, curriculum-aligned resources to assist you in teaching forces to your students.

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