Kinematics

Speed, velocity, acceleration and unsigned motion graphs for one-direction motion.

Learning goals

State what speed means
State what velocity means, including its direction
Calculate average speed from total distance and total time
Calculate acceleration as change in velocity divided by time taken
State what uniform acceleration means
Interpret examples of non-uniform acceleration
Plot and interpret a distance–time graph
Plot and interpret a speed–time graph for one-direction motion
Deduce rest, uniform speed and non-uniform speed from a distance–time graph
Deduce rest, uniform speed and uniform or non-uniform acceleration from a speed–time graph
Use area under a speed–time graph to determine distance travelled
Recall constant free-fall acceleration near Earth as approximately 10 m/s²

G3 Science (Physics) · Topic 2

Begin with the complete topic lesson. Then try a short check, use the feedback to review one idea and come back later for another attempt.

Speed, velocity, acceleration and unsigned motion graphs for one-direction motion.

Check the required topic capabilities and get focused practice for ideas that need another look.

Average speed uses total distance divided by total time; velocity also includes direction.
Acceleration is change in velocity divided by time, so use the initial and final velocities in the correct order.
A distance–time gradient gives speed; a speed–time gradient gives acceleration.
Area under a speed–time graph gives distance for the graph sections used in this course.
Near Earth, a freely falling object accelerates downward at about 10 m/s² when air resistance is negligible.

Kinematics is Topic 2 in K326 / K327 Physics component · 2027.

The lesson and questions stay at the depth required for this course.

Reviewed 9 Aug 2026

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Course and syllabus information