Step 1: Introduction & Fundamentals

Objective:
Learn the fundamental concepts of gravity, mass, and weight.

Definition:
Gravity is a force by which a planet or other body draws objects toward its center. The force of gravity keeps all of the planets in orbit around the sun.

Reading Material:
– Explore the basic principles of gravity, mass, and weight from [GRAVITY, MASS, WEIGHT – Year 7 Science – Forces and Simple …](https://library.plc.wa.edu.au/year7/science/forces/gravity_mass_weight).

Video Resource:
– Watch “What Is Gravity? | NASA Space Place – NASA Science for Kids” available on [NASA Space Place](https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/what-is-gravity/).

Key Takeaways:
– Gravity is a universal force that pulls objects toward one another.
– Mass is a measure of how much matter is in an object, while weight is the force of gravity on an object.
– Gravity is what gives weight to objects.

Activity/Reflection:
Reflect on how gravity affects everyday objects you interact with. Write a brief paragraph describing these interactions and discuss why objects don’t float around us.

Step 2: Practical Application & Techniques

Objective:
Understand how gravity is applied in real-world contexts.

Reading Material:
– Read the “Gravity for 7th Grade” material available on [TPT](https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/browse/free?search=Gravity%20for%207th%20Grade).

Video Resource:
– Watch “Gravity for Kids | Learn all about how gravitational force works” on [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9YMgx5T9Sk).

Key Takeaways:
– Gravity plays a crucial role in everyday life, affecting how we walk, jump, and even sit.
– Practically, gravity impacts everything from how buildings are constructed to the flight of an airplane.

Activity/Reflection:
Identify three instances where gravity is a crucial factor in real-world applications, such as in sports, architecture, or space exploration. Discuss these instances with a peer or write a short explanation.

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Step 3: Advanced Insights & Mastery

Objective:
Dive into advanced understanding and insights into the implications of gravity.

Reading Material:
– Go through advanced implications and principles from the [2016 Massachusetts Science Technology and Engineering Standards](https://www.doe.mass.edu/frameworks/scitech/2016-04/STE-Standards.pdf).

Video Resource:
– Explore “Gravity Explained Simply” on [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzjA5d0QXv8) for a more in-depth explanation.

Key Takeaways:
– Gravity is not uniform everywhere; it varies depending on altitude and the Earth’s rotation.
– Understanding gravity aids in complex fields like astrophysics, engineering, and environmental science.

Activity/Reflection:
Consider how changes in gravity would affect daily life and technological advancements. Imagine planning a mission to another planet with different gravitational pull. Sketch a simple plan addressing these challenges.

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Assessment

Question 1:
What is gravity?
– a) A form of energy
– b) A measure of how much matter is in an object
– c) A force that draws objects toward each other
– d) The weight of an object
– Correct Answer: c) A force that draws objects toward each other

Question 2:
Which of the following statements about gravity is true?
– a) Gravity is only present on Earth.
– b) Gravity gives weight to objects.
– c) Gravity pushes objects away from Earth.
– d) Gravity is stronger at higher altitudes.
– Correct Answer: b) Gravity gives weight to objects.

Question 3:
What happens to gravity as you move further from the center of the Earth?
– a) It increases
– b) It remains the same
– c) It decreases
– d) It fluctuates randomly
– Correct Answer: c) It decreases

Question 4:
Which real-world application relies heavily on an understanding of gravity?
– a) Painting a picture
– b) Building a space shuttle
– c) Playing a piano
– d) Writing an essay
– Correct Answer: b) Building a space shuttle