Investigate gravity with a falling apple

Make a prediction and investigate

Compare two gravity settings while keeping the starting height fixed. Predict which apple will reach the ground first.

Controls in the actual lab

• Gravity: starts at 9.81 m/s²; available range 0.4–26 m/s².
• Height: starts at 4 m; available range 2–10 m.

Gravity is the pull that makes things accelerate toward a world. Weaker gravity, slower fall.

Discuss the evidence

Draw two distance-versus-time sketches and explain how the stronger pull changes the motion.

Try it beyond the activity

Explain why a comparison needs the same starting height. Name a real-world influence this simulation may simplify.

Record your thinking

Sources and limits

This companion uses the published Gravity activity and its learning guidance. Review any original sources linked there. It is a discussion plan by Lesson Worlds, not a scored assessment, a standards certification, or evidence of learning gains.

Use this activity with a learner

Families and educators · choose by prior knowledge

Learning goal: Gravity is the pull that makes things accelerate toward a world. Weaker gravity, slower fall.

Before you begin: Read the controls for Gravity, Height. Make one prediction before changing a setting.

Check understanding: Ask for one observation, the evidence that supports it, and a question to investigate next.

A simulation simplifies the real world. Explain which conditions stayed fixed; a successful run alone does not demonstrate mastery.

Activity and guide by Lesson Worlds. About the platform.