Include:

Class Info
Grade Level
Other Information
Custom Fields
Public Notes
Reflection
Date(s)
Multiple Days
Structure
Purpose
Minutes
Common Core Standards

Kinetic and Potential Energy

Grade Level:
6
Subject:
Science
Topic:
Energy Transformations and Engineering Principles
Objective:
Students will be able to "Differentiate between kinetic and potential energy and analyze situations where kinetic energy is converted to potential energy and
vice versa." ( MN Standard 6.2.3.2.1 ) Additionally, they will "apply and document an engineering design process that includes identifying criteria and constraints, making representations, testing and evaluation, and refining the design as needed to construct a product or system to solve a problem." (MN Standard 6.1.2.2.1) The lesson will also incorporate velocity, a previously covered standard. (MN Standard 6.2.2.1.1)
Other Information:
In this lesson, we will be discussing the principles of energy, specifically kinetic and potential. Additionally, we will be applying principles from engineering which encoruage students to create, analyze, and improve their ideas to increase efficiency. As part of their instruction, students will be required to construct a functional marble roller coaster from foam noodles and other limited supplies. The goal of this lesson is to create a physical model for students to visualize the transitions between kinetic and potential energy, and collaborate to improve and existing system.
Prep:
Arrange the classroom with all tables and desks in the middle, thereby allowing students room to work and build around the classroom.
Set up construction materials in the center of the classroom with enough of each supply to satisfy the class size.
Give enough time
Materials:
Foam Pipe Insulation halves
Duct tape
Marbles
Salt
Paper
Pencil
Computer with internet access