Forces: Physical Science for Kids



Last updated Wednesday, July 21, 2021

Author: Andi Diehn
Illustrator: Hui Li
Date of Publication: 2018
ISBN: 1619306360
Grade Level: Kindergarten    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Jul. 2021

Synopsis: What keeps us stuck on the ground? What makes magnets come together? What makes one team win during a game of tug of war? Forces!

Our world operates the way it does because of forces. Gravity, magnetism, pulling and pushing forces, and friction are some of the many forces that affect the way we move on Earth.

In Forces: Physical Science for Kids, kids are encouraged to observe and consider the different forces they encounter on a daily basis. By recognizing this basic physics concept and identifying the different ways it is demonstrated in real life, kids develop a fundamental understanding of physical science and are impressed with the idea that science is a constant part of our lives and not limited to classrooms and laboratories. Simple vocabulary, detailed illustrations, easy science experiments, and a glossary all support exciting learning for kids - perfect for beginner readers or as a read aloud nonfiction picture book!

Note to readers:
•  In Forces: Physical Science for Kids, kids ages 5 to 8 are encouraged to observe and consider the different forces they encounter on a daily basis. Perfect for children who love to ask, “Why?” about the world around them, Forces satisfies curiosity while encouraging student-led learning.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Why and how do things move?
•  How come we’re stuck to the ground?

Vocabulary

•  Please see page 28 for a list of vocabulary words and definitions.

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  What keeps us stuck to the ground? Gravity (review the definition of gravity with the kids).
•  What types of forces are at the playground?
•  Ask the kids to jump up and down. Can forces be fun?
•  What can you push? (Push a cart)
•  What can you pull? (Pull a wagon)

Craft ideas:
•  Make a paper plane. Use a pushing force to make the paper plane fly.
•  Create a ramp and use a toy car to demonstrate how fast the car can go. If you push it harder, it will go faster and farther.
•  Identify different activities for pushing and pulling (see Pinterest board).
•  Check our craft ideas on Pinterest!
https://www.pinterest.com/readingtokids/july-2021the-wonders-of-science-technology/

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!