Class: Primary 6
Term: 2nd Term
Subject: Basic Science And Technology
Curriculum Theme: Basic Science
Previous Lesson: Meaning And Effects Of Friction
Topic: Advantages and Disadvantages of Frictional Force
Content/Learning Area: advantages and Disadvantages of Frictional Force
Time Allocation: 40 minutes
Performance Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
- Cognitive Domain: Define frictional force and list five advantages and five disadvantages of frictional force.
- Affective Domain: Appreciate the importance of friction in daily life activities.
- Psychomotor Domain: Identify examples of frictional force during a class presentation.
- Social domain: Discuss how friction affects teamwork in games and sports.
Reference Materials
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- 9–Years Basic Education Curriculum
- Abuja Educational Resource Center Scheme of Work
- NAPPS National Unified Scheme of work
- Online details from: BYJU’S – What Are The Advantages And disadvantages Of Friction?
- Relevant Textbooks
Instructional Materials
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will use the following materials:
- A wooden block and sandpaper
- A smooth and rough surface
- Pictures of activities involving friction
- A video clip showing the effects of friction
Rationale for the Lesson
Understanding frictional force helps pupils recognise its advantages and disadvantages in daily life.This knowledge is essential for solving practical problems and improving efficiency in tasks like moving objects, driving, and sports.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils are familiar with basic concepts of motion and have observed how objects slide or stop when pushed.
Lesson Content
Advantages and Disadvantages of Frictional Force
Frictional force is the resistance force that opposes the motion of objects in contact with each other.
Advantages of Frictional Force:
Friction offers several benefits in our daily lives and in various applications. The following are examples:
- It helps in walking by providing grip between shoes and the ground.
- Friction allows vehicles to stop when brakes are applied.
- It enables writing on paper using pencils or pens.
- it helps in lighting a matchstick.
- Friction between machine parts generates necessary heat for some processes.
- It allows us to hold objects without slipping.
- It helps in the movement of conveyor belts in industries.
Disadvantages of Frictional Force:
Despite its benefits,friction also has drawbacks that can cause inefficiencies and damage. These include:
- It causes wear and tear of machine parts.
- Friction reduces the efficiency of moving objects by opposing motion.
- It generates unwanted heat in engines, leading to energy loss.
- Friction makes it difficult to move heavy objects over rough surfaces.
- Excessive friction can damage surfaces,such as tires or shoe soles.
- It can cause burns if skin rubs against a rough surface.
- It reduces the lifespan of moving parts in machinery.
Teaching Methods
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following methods: Clarification, Visual Aids, Demonstration, Discussion, Question and Answer.
Instructional Procedures
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following steps:
Step 1: Introduction
Time: 5 mins
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: Asks pupils to recall their experiences of objects sliding or stopping when pushed.
Pupils’ activity: Share their experiences.
Step 2: Explanation of Frictional Force
Time: 10 mins
Teaching Skill: Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: Explains frictional force using examples and shows images of activities involving friction.
Pupils’ Activity: Observe and listen.
Step 3: Demonstration of Friction
Time: 7 mins
Teaching Skill: Practical
Teacher’s Activity: Demonstrates friction using sandpaper, a wooden block, and smooth surfaces.
Pupils’ Activity: Participate in the demonstration.
Step 4: Note-Taking
Time: 5 mins
Teaching Skill: Guided writing
Teacher’s Activity: Guides pupils to write down the advantages and disadvantages of friction.
Pupils’ Activity: Copy notes.
Step 5: Evaluation/Review
Time: 5 mins
Teaching Skill: Questioning
Teacher’s Activity: Asks questions to test understanding of the topic.Pupils’ Activity: Answer questions.
Objective-aligned checks:
- Define frictional force and list five advantages and five disadvantages of frictional force.
- Identify examples of frictional force during a class presentation.
Step 6: Conclusion
Time: 3 mins
Teaching Skill: Recap
Teacher’s Activity: Summarizes the lesson by reiterating key points.Pupils’ Activity: Listen attentively.
lesson Keywords
- Friction – A force that opposes motion between surfaces in contact.
- Advantages – Benefits or positive effects of friction.
- Disadvantages – Drawbacks or negative effects of friction.
- Wear and tear – Damage caused by continuous use or friction.
- Efficiency – The ability to do something without wasting resources.
Lesson Evaluation
To evaluate the learning, the teacher asks pupils to:
- Define frictional force.
- List three advantages of friction.
- Mention three disadvantages of friction.
- Explain how friction helps in stopping a moving car.
- Describe one situation where friction is a disadvantage.
Assignment/Homework
- List five activities you do every day that involve friction.
- Explain how you can reduce friction in a bicycle.
- Write a short paragraph on the importance of friction in sports.
Differentiation
- For slower learners: Provide simplified explanations and hands-on activities with direct supervision.
- For advanced learners: Challenge them to research and present on real-world applications of friction control.
- For visual/auditory/kinesthetic learners: Use videos, demonstrations, and interactive experiments to cater to different learning styles.
Note for Teachers
Ensure the demonstration is engaging by involving pupils. Encourage them to relate the concept of friction to their daily activities. Allow time for questions and discussions to promote understanding. Happy teaching!

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