Printable Gravity Quiz | Grade 5 Science Worksheet

This Grade 5 science worksheet helps students understand the effects of Earth's gravity by identifying which objects are pulled to the ground and which are not. Featuring clear illustrations and straightforward multiple-choice questions, this resource provides an immediate check for understanding on gravitational forces.

At a Glance

• Grade: 5 · Subject: Science
• Standard: 5-PS2-1 — Identify objects affected by Earth's downward gravitational pull and distinguish them from energy waves
• Skill Focus: Effects of Gravity on Mass
• Format: 2 pages · 8 problems · Answer key not included · PDF
• Best For: Quick formative assessment, exit tickets, and science center rotations
• Time: 10–15 minutes

What's Inside

This two-page assessment features eight highly visual multiple-choice questions. Students are presented with pairs of objects—ranging from everyday items like apples and books to intangible concepts like radio waves and smoke—and must determine which ones are subject to Earth's downward pull. The clear layout and recognizable icons make the concepts accessible while minimizing reading barriers.

Zero-Prep Workflow

• Print (1 minute): Simply print the two-page PDF. No special materials or complex instructions are required.
• Distribute (1 minute): Hand out the quiz as a quick warm-up or exit ticket.
• Review (5 minutes): Go over the eight questions together as a class to correct any misconceptions about mass and gravity.

Total teacher prep time is under two minutes, making this an excellent option for a last-minute sub plan or a quick transition activity.

Standards Alignment

Aligned to 5-PS2-1: Support an argument that the gravitational force exerted by Earth on objects is directed down. This worksheet provides foundational practice by having students distinguish between objects with mass that fall to the ground and phenomena that do not. Both standard codes can be copied directly into lesson plans, IEP goals, or district curriculum mapping tools.

How to Use It

Use this worksheet as a formative assessment after direct instruction on gravitational forces. It serves perfectly as an exit ticket to gauge which students grasp the concept that gravity affects objects with mass. Alternatively, use it as a pre-assessment before a physics unit to spark discussion about why things like hot air balloons or steam seem to defy gravity. Observe whether students struggle with the difference between gases (like helium) and energy waves (like sound). Expected completion time is 10 to 15 minutes.

Who It's For

This resource is designed for fifth-grade science students learning about forces and motion. The heavy use of visual supports makes it highly accessible for English Language Learners and students needing reading accommodations. It pairs naturally with hands-on dropping experiments or a direct instruction lesson on mass and gravitational pull.

Integrating targeted assessments on foundational physics concepts like 5-PS2-1 helps students identify objects affected by Earth's downward gravitational pull. According to EdReports 2024, providing students with clear, visual examples of abstract scientific forces significantly improves their ability to construct evidence-based arguments in later grades. When learners are asked to evaluate everyday items, they build a more robust mental model of physical science principles. By contrasting objects with mass against phenomena like sound waves, radio signals, or smoke, educators can quickly identify and address common misconceptions about how gravity operates in the natural world. This focused practice ensures that foundational gaps are closed early, paving the way for more complex physics investigations. Consistent exposure to these targeted scenarios ultimately strengthens overall scientific literacy and critical thinking skills, ensuring they are fully prepared for middle school science standards and beyond.