Doin’ the Newton Dance

Educators can use this activity to explore the connection between science and art. This activity aligns with the National Arts Standards: Creating, Performing, Responding, Connecting.

Materials Needed: One small object per student

1. To begin, offer students the following context: “The
   famous scientist Sir Isaac Newton authored a set of
   laws centered on the relation between an object
   and motion. In fact, Newton’s first law of motion
   says ‘objects at rest stay at rest unless a force acts on
   them.’
2. Next, tell them they’re going to explore a blend
   of science and art—specifically dance. To start the
   exploration, ask students to find a small object, such
   as a ball or toy, and then find a partner.
3. Then, ask students to hold their object in their hand
   and do the following:
   • Toss it gently in the air, catching it when it comes down. Ask them: What happens when you toss it gently upward? How does the object move? and invite them to share their responses with their partners.
   • Give their object a spin on a solid surface. Do this a few times at different speeds.
     Ask them: In what different ways did the object move at varying speeds?
     How did it act when coming to a stop? How would you describe its movement?
     and invite them to have a discussion in pairs about the different ways their objects move.
4. Next, invite students to create a short sequence of four movements inspired by the motion of their objects. Then, invite them to share their moves with their partner.
5. Ask students to combine their moves and their partner’s moves to create a dance. Ask them to consider this question: How do your dance moves reflect Newton’s law?
6. Finally, invite volunteers to step into the spotlight by sharing their dance moves with the class and celebrate the fusion of science and dance!

Reflection Questions:

• How did your object’s movements reflect
  Newton’s laws?
• What surprised you during the dance exploration?
• How can you apply the science of motion to
  improve your dance moves in the future?