English National Curriculum - Science
Mission Objectives
Investigate the relationship between force, mass and acceleration using a trolley and pulley system
Collect data and analyse results to verify Newton’s Second Law (F= ma)
Evaluate the effects of experimental uncertainties and systematic errors
Save files related to this lesson
Words and meanings to learn
acceleration
the rate at which an object’s velocity changes, measured in metres per second squared (m/s²)
proportional relationship
a relationship where one quantity increases or decreases in direct proportion to another
mass
the amount of matter in an object, measured in kilograms (kg)
average
a calculated mean value, used here to improve accuracy in timing results
gravity
the force that pulls objects toward the Earth, affecting the mass hanger’s pull on the trolley
Sponsored by
Samantha is an accomplished science educator with over 15 years of leadership experience and a strong background in scientific analysis. She has a proven record of leading departments effectively, improving practice, and working collaboratively with stakeholders.
In her current work, Samantha embeds evidence-informed pedagogical principles such as retrieval practice, clear modelling, and effective sequencing to support high-quality curriculum design and professional development. She draws on assessment insight and common misconceptions to help teachers secure strong student understanding.
She is a former Head of Chemistry and Sixth Form Tutor at Ilkley Grammar School, with extensive Key Stage 4 and 5 experience, and an AQA examiner, giving her valuable insight into assessment standards and exam requirements.
In her spare time, Samantha enjoys playing the accordion with her local orchestra and has recently taken up cricket.
1m ruler, toy car, bench pulley, string and small weight stack (e.g. 1 N in steps of 0.2 N), two clamp stands, clamps and bosses and sticky tac to attach weights to the car.
Using a smartphone to video the sequence will provide more reliable data.
Link to spreadsheet.
This investigation can be done with simple equipment (stopwatches and toy cars) or using a linear air track and light gates. However, if the latter method is used, students will not have the opportunity to complete physics AT 1 measurement of mass and time.
Expert film
Mission assignment film
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2026 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
