Knowledge organiser - Forces - Year 5

The 'Forces' knowledge organiser for Year 5 provides essential vocabulary and key concepts that students need to understand the topic. The vocabulary section introduces the term 'friction' as a force encountered between two surfaces that slide or attempt to slide across each other. 'Gravity' is described as a force that draws objects towards one another. The organiser also explains 'air resistance' as a type of friction that occurs when an object, such as an aeroplane, moves through the air. When it comes to 'water resistance', it is the friction experienced between skin and water particles while swimming.

In addition to these forces, the organiser defines a 'lever' as a long, rigid object that pivots on a fulcrum, and a 'pulley' as a simple machine consisting of a wheel on an axle with a groove for a rope or cable. The key knowledge section expects students to understand what a force is and how it affects movement, grasp the significance of gravity in everyday life, and recognise the effects of air and water resistance. It also covers the impact of friction and explains how mechanisms such as levers, pulleys, and gears can amplify a small force to produce a greater effect. This foundational knowledge is critical for students as they delve into the main learning theme of forces, building upon their prior knowledge in science.