2
Going faster
Workbook 2: Topic 2.3, p. 25
GoalExplain how a push can make a moving object speed up, for example by pedalling or pushing a swing.
New words
speed up · to start going fasterpedal · the part of a bicycle you push with your footswing · a seat on ropes that moves backwards and forwards
Explanation
A push can make a moving thing go faster. We say it speeds up. When Ravi pushes the pedals of his bicycle, the bicycle speeds up. The harder he pushes, the faster he goes. A grown-up can push a swing again and again to make it go higher and faster. A sailing boat speeds up when the wind pushes harder on its sail. To go faster you need to use a bigger force.
Worked examples
Ravi pushes the pedals harder. His bicycle speeds up.
Yuki’s dad pushes her on the swing. Each push makes the swing go a little faster and higher.
The wind blows harder on the sail. The bigger push makes the boat speed up.
Class activity
Run and speed up (outside, with an adult): stand at a line. Walk slowly for ten steps, then walk faster, then run for ten steps. How does it feel in your legs? You pushed the ground harder to speed up. Always stop in a safe place.
Practice
1
What can Daniyar do to make his bicycle go faster?
Push the pedals harder.
2
Why does a swing go faster when a grown-up pushes it again?
The extra push is a force that makes it speed up.
3
Is speeding up making something go faster or slower?
Faster.
4
Aisha wants to run faster. Does she need a bigger force or a smaller force?
A bigger force.