How to Calculate Speed and Describe Motion

Next Generation Science

This educational video provides a clear and comprehensive introduction to the concepts of motion and speed for elementary and middle school students. It begins by defining motion as a continuous change in position and explores different ways objects move, such as back-and-forth, circular, and linear motion. The core of the video focuses on defining speed as the rate at which an object covers distance, introducing the formula: Speed = Distance ÷ Time. The video breaks down speed calculation into two common units of measurement: meters per second (m/s) for short, fast bursts (like a sprinter or a drag car) and kilometers per hour (km/h) for longer journeys (like a train or boat). It uses high-quality, real-world footage to demonstrate these concepts, showing step-by-step mathematical calculations on screen for various scenarios, including a swimmer, a cyclist, and a train. For educators, this resource serves as an excellent dual-purpose tool for both Science and Math. It visually connects abstract physics concepts with practical division problems. The video concludes with a 10-question interactive "Speed Quiz" that challenges students to apply the formula they just learned, making it a ready-to-use lesson starter or review activity. The clear narration and visual text support diverse learners in grasping the relationship between distance, time, and speed.