By: Jack Callaghan

Simulating Gravity on Different Planets with Scratch

In this lesson, students will use Scratch to create an interactive simulation that models how gravity affects an astronaut on different planetary surfaces. They will adjust the acceleration based on the gravity of different planets and observe its effects on motion.

Introduction:

1. Begin by asking students: “What happens when you jump on the Moon compared to Earth? Why?”
2. Show a video or animation of astronauts on the Moon to highlight reduced gravity effects.
3. Explain that in this lesson, they will code a Scratch simulation to visualize how gravity changes movement on different planets.

Working Process:

1. Guide students through setting up a Scratch project with an astronaut sprite and multiple backdrops representing different planetary surfaces.
2. Introduce the concept of gravity as an acceleration and show how to modify gravity values in Scratch using variables.
3. Provide step-by-step instructions on how to program the astronaut to fall at different rates depending on the selected backdrop.
4. Encourage students to add interactive elements, such as buttons to switch planets or animations to enhance realism.

Consolidation:

1. Have students test their simulations by switching planets and recording observations on how gravity affects motion.
2. Discuss real-world applications, such as how gravity impacts space travel and astronaut training.
3. Allow students to present their projects and explain their code logic.

Resource Information:

Tags: Scratch, Gravity, Planets, Coding, Science Simulation

Grade(s): 6-9

Main Subject: Science

Other Integrated Subjects: Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, Earth and Space

Learning to Code?: Yes

Coding to Learn?: Yes

URL Link to Code: https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1149228050