In Year 5 this week, we investigated friction and learned about how it can slow object down and also create heat.

We planned and carried out and investigation to find out which material would make the best zip wire for Mrs Porteous’ children’s toy elephant. We investigated ribbon, string and utility cord and timed how long it took the soft toy to travel down the zip wire.

We wanted a zip wire where the toy didn’t get stuck or take too long, but also one where there was some friction created so there was some resistance and the toy didn’t whiz down it too quickly!

Our results prompted questions about rough and smooth surfaces but also surface area contact and how this may have affected our results.