Early Atlas

Activity

Ramps and Rolling Balls

Children build ramps and roll balls to investigate how height and force change motion.

Ages 36–60 months

Inspired by HighScope Play-based learning motion ramps cause-and-effect physical-world

Supports this milestone

  • observes and describes observable phenomena (objects, materials, organisms, and events). — Head Start ELOF

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Materials

  • Smooth boards, cardboard tubes, or planks to use as ramps
  • Blocks or boxes to prop the ramps at different heights
  • An assortment of balls in different sizes and weights
  • Masking tape to mark how far each ball rolls

Steps

  • Roll one ball down the ramp and watch together where it stops.
  • Ask the children to guess what happens if the ramp is raised higher.
  • Help them prop the ramp higher and roll the same ball again.
  • Mark with tape how far the ball rolls each time and compare the distances.
  • Invite children to try different balls and describe which rolls farthest.

Variations

  • Add a second ramp at the bottom to make a curved track.
  • Roll balls onto different surfaces such as carpet and tile to compare.

Differentiation

  • For younger children, keep one ramp height and focus on rolling and watching.
  • For older children, ask them to predict the order in which different balls will stop.

Accessibility

  • Provide lightweight balls and low ramps so children with limited strength can create motion.

Safety

  • Keep the rolling path clear of feet and use balls too large to be swallowed.

Practices these skills

Evidence

Early Atlas