What is Energy?

Energy Transformations
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Intended Grade Level(s):
4-6
Energy Content:
Electrical Energy,
Electricity and Magnetism,
Energy Fundamentals,
Light (Visible),
Potential & Kinetic Energy,
Sound,
Thermal Energy (Heat)
Learning Goal(s):

Students will obtain the foundational knowledge of energy sources and forms of energy. In addition, students will learn that energy can transfer from one form to another. Students will build the understanding that there are different types of energy and many can not be directly observed.

Unit:
Solar Boats
Lesson Number:
1
Pedagogy & Practice:
Hands-on Materials,
Multiple Learning Styles
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems
Relevant NGSS PE:
4-PS3-2,
4-ESS3-1
Other Subjects Covered:
ELA: Speaking & Listening,
ELA: Writing,
ELA: Vocabulary Development
Estimated Activity Length:
1 hour
Files Associated with this Activity:
PDF icon Lesson 1_ What is Energy.pdf
PDF icon Student Sheet Lesson 1.pdf
Description:

Students will gain an understanding of the fundamentals of energy through observing a variety of energy transformations and develop a foundational vocabulary for identifying and discussing energy concepts. Students will make observations about how energy is converted between stored and kinetic forms through interacting with these changes in a station-based format. Students have the opportunity to share their findings and engage in scientific talk based on their interactions. 

Other Material(s) Used:
Rulers, wind-up toys, complete circuit, rubber band-propelled vehicles, several magnets and nonmagnetic items, water bottles, large and small ball