ES-PS2.B-3

Gravity Explorer

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Game Info for Teachers

COMBINED RATING

4.2 Stars

TEACHERS (2)

4.0

STUDENTS (7)

4.4

LENGTH

25 Minutes

GRADES

CAPABILITIES

Text-to-Speech Support

Saves Progress

Description

This captivating game propels young astronauts into space on exciting missions. By solving puzzles based on gravitational force, players explore the universe while learning the laws of physics in a fun and interactive way.

Vocabulary Words

solar system

gravitational force

planets

orbit

non-contact force

air resistance

Instructions

Play through this interactive game to learn about Gravitational Force. Suitable for Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5.

Main Concepts

The farther the distance between two masses, the weaker the gravitational force between them.

Earth is spherical in shape.

A force has both a strength and a direction.

Gravity is a force that pulls all objects on Earth down towards Earth’s surface.

A non-contact force is a force that can act on an object over a distance.

Gravity is a non-contact force between any two masses.

The larger a mass is, the stronger its gravitational force.

While gravity appears to pulls objects downwards, it actually pulls them towards the center of the Earth.

Discussion Questions

Before the Game

What are three things that are found in our solar system? How does gravity keep the planets moving around the sun? Besides Earth, can you name two more planets that are part of our solar system?

After the Game

How did manipulating the gravitational forces enhance your ability to overcome obstacles? How does mass and distance of two objects affect their gravitational force? How does speed of an object affect its ability to remain in orbit around another object? What role did gravity play when your rocket approached a planet? Why is gravity considered a non-contact force? Why do objects fall at the same speed on other planets, but at different speeds on Earth?