How Gravity Works: Isaac Newton and the Apple Story

SciShow Kids

This engaging video from SciShow Kids explores the life and discoveries of Sir Isaac Newton, specifically focusing on his famous theory of gravity. Hosted by Jessi and her robot mouse friend Squeaks, the video uses the legendary story of the falling apple to explain complex physical concepts in an accessible way for young learners. It breaks down what gravity is—a force that pulls objects toward one another—and explains how this same force keeps the Moon in orbit around the Earth and the Earth in orbit around the Sun. The video covers key scientific themes including forces (pushes and pulls), mass, attraction, and orbital mechanics. It effectively simplifies the relationship between an object's size/weight and its gravitational pull. Additionally, the video touches upon historical analysis by investigating the truth behind the "apple hitting the head" myth, introducing students to the idea of primary sources through William Stukeley's account. For educators, this resource is an excellent tool for introducing units on forces and motion or the solar system. It provides clear visual metaphors for gravity and orbits that are often difficult to visualize. The segment on the historical accuracy of the apple story also offers a unique opportunity to teach critical thinking and the difference between historical fact and legend. The video is upbeat, visually stimulating, and uses humor to keep students engaged while delivering foundational physics concepts.