Gravity and satellites: true or false? – graphic organiser
Use this interactive graphic organiser to highlight common alternative conceptions about gravity and satellites. Students can place the labels where they think they belong. This activity can be done individually, in pairs or as a whole class.
Gravity and satellites: true or false? – graphic organiser
True
False
Not sure
Unused items
- There is no gravity in space
- Astronauts appear weightless because there is no gravity in space
- Gravity only works on falling objects
- Gravity keeps the International Space Station in orbit around the Earth
- All objects – even people – are attracted towards each other by gravity
- A 1 kg mass dropped from a 100 km high tower would float away
- Gravity keeps the Moon orbiting around the Earth
- A 1 kg mass dropped from a 30 km high tower would fall straight down
- The Moon is a satellite
- Gravity only affects things on Earth
This resource highlights some of the more common misunderstandings students may hold about gravity and space. Encourage students to discuss their reasoning for where they have placed the statements.
Place the labels where you think they belong. You can move the labels from one place to another, if you change your mind. Note: if the label has not changed to a blue background, check it is fully within a box. When you are ready, click the Check answers button to check your ideas, then click the Reset incorrect button to try again.
Use the Download exercise button for a PDF of the diagram and labels.
See the Gravity and satellites: true or false? activity for additional support in using this interactive.
