This Science video introduces teachers to a comparative investigation where pupils explore the effects of friction and how the roughness of a surface impacts how far a car travels. Pupils will follow the inquiry cycle and focus on identifying variables – deciding what to change, what to measure, and what to keep the same.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Science scheme – friction. It supports teachers in guiding pupils through accurate setup and fair testing. Demonstrate the correct method first and highlight common errors to avoid: pupils should not push the car, should keep the ramp angle the same, and measure from the front of the car once it stops. Materials must fully cover the ramp, and rulers should be aligned with the ramp’s end. Support accurate measurement and remind pupils of best practice if needed. Pupils will record their results in a table and write a conclusion, using the model from lesson two to help structure their findings.

Science, key stage 2, Year 3, Forces and space: Forces and magnets, Lesson 3: Investigating friction