English National Curriculum - Science

Gravitational potential energy

Mission Objectives

Define GPE and understand the formula GPE = mgh

Calculate GPE using various examples

Explain the relationship between height, mass and GPE

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Rocket Words Quiz

Rocket Words Quiz

See if you know all the meanings of the rocket words

Assessment Quiz

Assessment Quiz

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Word Search Game

Word Search Game

Find all the rocket words in the grid

Lesson Resources

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

energy transfer

the process by which energy moves from one object or form to another

gravity

the force that attracts objects with mass toward one another

mass

the amount of matter in an object, measured in kilograms (kg); mass is constant and does not change based on location

height

the vertical distance of an object above a reference point, usually the ground or the bottom of a slope

gravitational potential energy

the energy stored in an object due to its position above the ground; it depends on the object's mass, the height above the ground and the strength of gravity

Sponsored by

United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory

United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory

Sponsored by

United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory

United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory

This lesson has been written by

Samantha Batch

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. 

Required Resources

Handouts

Masses, rulers, tape measure

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