“Force and Motion” introduces children to the concepts of force, motion, and gravity. Through examples that children can see in their everyday lives, the book communicates that motion is caused by force and that forced is caused by a push or a pull on objects. Gravity is described as force that pulls objects “down.” The concept of “lift” is contrasted with the force of gravity. Photographic images of children engaged in various activities provide concrete, easily understood examples of these new concepts.
“Playground Science” introduces children to basic physics concepts involving motion. Playground activities and equipment are used as examples to introduce children to concepts involving work; push and pull; simple machines; and gravity. Photographs of children at play reinforce the ideas that science is all around us and is part of our everyday lives.