Measuring Density Physics Required Practical Workbook with ClassAdapt Science Simulations

A 20-page, print-ready workbook for the GCSE Physics density required practical. It’s written for pupils who need more support, including SEND, EAL and lower-attaining pupils, and it works with or without a lab.

Pupils measure density three ways, one step at a time, with a tick box for each step:

an irregular solid (a stone) using a eureka can
a regular solid (an aluminium block) using a ruler
a liquid (salt solution) using a measuring cylinder and a balance

What’s inside

Hook: a man reading a newspaper while floating in the Dead Sea. Why doesn’t he sink? Pupils find out by the end.
Density tower game: pupils predict where ten everyday objects will settle among five liquids.
Sink or Swim: a two-player game with 16 cut-out cards. Pictures are on the front and densities on the back, so pupils check their own guesses.
Step-by-step methods: with safety and technique tips (fill the eureka can until it overflows, read the meniscus at eye level, use the tare button).
Results table, plus a “No simulation? No problem” page of class data, so every pupil can finish the analysis.
Calculations: density = mass ÷ volume, built up one box at a time.
Graph and gradient: pupils plot mass against volume and find density from the gradient.
Odd result: pupils find a planted anomaly, explain its cause and work out a mean.
Conclusion: pupils use their density to rule materials in or out, rather than being told the answer.
Evaluation: with word banks throughout.
Exam practice: four exam-style questions (12 marks).
Self-check: an “I can…” list.
Teacher answer key: full answers and mark scheme.

Works with free access to two ClassAdapt 3D simulations on Measuring density
QR codes link to a free interactive 3D version of the practical and to a density tower game. Pupils can do the whole practical on any device, repeat it as often as they like, or catch up if they missed the lesson.

Suitable for
KS4 GCSE Physics and Combined Science, intervention groups, home learners, and cover lessons.