Transfer of Energy
Transfer of Energy
Objectives
In this unit, students will discover that energy is the ability to cause change. Students will:
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understand that energy is an abstract concept and does not have easily measurable properties like matter, but we can see its effects by switching on a light bulb or a fan.
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identify different sources and forms of energy (e.g., light/radiant, heat/thermal, electrical, stored or potential, and kinetic energy).
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explain the differences between kinetic and potential forms of energy.
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describe how energy moves or is transferred from one object or place to another using examples of heat (thermal) and food (chemical) energy.
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demonstrate a simple and parallel circuit by building and connecting an electrical circuit using batteries, wires, switches, and light bulbs.
Essential Questions
Related Unit and Lesson Plans
Related Materials & Resources
The possible inclusion of commercial websites below is not an implied endorsement of their products, which are not free, and are not required for this lesson plan.
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Energy: Its Forms, Changes, and Functions by Tom DeRosa and Carolyn Reeves. Master Books, 2009.
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Science Stories: A Science Methods Book for Elementary School Teachers by Janice Koch. Houghton Mifflin, 2002.
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Zephyrus Education
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NASA Sci Files
http://scifiles.larc.nasa.gov/text/kids/Problem_Board/problems/electricity/circuits2.html