Chapter 5: Motion on Earth and in Space

Practical 3.5.4 Investigating relative motion

page 1/2
In this practical you will investigate relative motion using paper models of sycamore seeds. You will
analyse the data you have collected and consider the quality of the evidence you have gathered.
Apparatus
half an A4 sheet of paper to make two paper spinners
scissors
four paper clips
digital timer
metre ruler or tape measure
graph paper

SAFETY INFORMATION
Take care not to fall from a height during this investigation.

Method
1. Using the instructions shown on page 2 of this practical sheet, make two paper spinners. These
will act as model sycamore seeds.
2. Find a place to drop the spinners from – a minimum of 2 m height is required. Measure the height.
3. To check that the two spinners perform equally, attach one paper clip to each spinner and drop
them side by side. They should fall and reach the ground together. Repeat the test with two paper
clips on each spinner. If the two spinners do not fall at the same rate, check the accuracy of your
cutting/folding and that the paper clips are the same weight.
4. Then, with one paper clip attached to one spinner and two paper clips attached to the other, drop
them both at the same time. Time how long it takes for each of them to reach the ground.
5. Consider if you need to adjust or repeat your procedure. You will need enough data to plot a
simple distance–time graph for the spinners.
Results
Design and complete a suitable table to record your results.

Analyse and interpret data

1. If you have carried out repeat readings, calculate the mean (average) time for each spinner to
reach the ground.
2. Plot a distance–time graph for the spinners. Draw lines for both spinners on the same axes and
assume that they both fall at a constant speed.
3. Calculate the speed of each spinner, and their relative speed.

Evaluate data and methods

4. How sure are you that each spinner falls at a constant speed throughout its descent? What
checks or changes could you make?
5. Explain why the checks you made in part 3 of the method were important.
6. Comment on how reliable your results are.
7. What advice would you give to younger students to ensure that they carry out this activity
responsibly?

Key Stage 3 Science Teacher Pack 3 © HarperCollinsPublishers Limited 2014

 Chapter 5: Motion on Earth and in Space

Practical 3.5.4 Investigating relative motion

page 2/2

Key Stage 3 Science Teacher Pack 3 © HarperCollinsPublishers Limited 2014