How Pushes and Pulls Make Things Move

Next Generation Science

This engaging educational video introduces young learners to the fundamental physics concepts of force and motion through the lens of pushes and pulls. Using high-energy, relatable footage of children playing sports, visiting playgrounds, and performing daily chores, the video clearly defines a force as a push or a pull and demonstrates how these forces cause objects to move. It breaks down the mechanics of movement by showing that objects cannot move on their own and require an external force to change their position. The content explores several key themes, distinguishing between pushes (moving things away) and pulls (bringing things closer), while also highlighting complex movements that utilize both simultaneously, such as climbing a wall. It provides a wide variety of concrete examples—from kicking a soccer ball and jumping on a trampoline to dragging a sled and playing tug-of-war—helping students visualize these abstract concepts in real-world contexts. For educators, this video serves as an excellent anchor for K-2 physical science units aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) regarding forces and interactions. It simplifies the definition of force into accessible language and offers immediate visual evidence that teachers can reference. The clear narration and distinct examples make it perfect for sparking classroom discussions about how things move, leading into hands-on investigations with classroom objects or playground equipment.