Converting Gravitational Potential Energy to Kinetic Energy
Students plan and carry out an investigation to examine the relationship between gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy of motion. They analyze and interpret the data to quantify the transfer of energy from a falling object (metal cylinder) to a stationary object (nail). They expand on their understanding of energy-efficiency by considering whether all the gravitational potential energy has been transferred to the nail.
Details at a Glance
- 2-3 Days | 2-3 ~50 minute class periods
- 1 Activity
- Accommodates unlimited classes, each with 6 groups of 4 students
- Meets our criteria for supporting literacy
- All materials are non-consumable
- Includes digital resources
- Developed in partnership with SEPUP
Scientific Concepts
Disciplinary Core Ideas
•MS-PS3.B Conservation of Energy and Energy Transfer
•MMS-PS3.A Definitions of Energy
•MS-PS3.C Relationship between Energy and Forces
Science and Engineering Practices
•Planning and Carrying Out Investigations
•Analyzing and Interpreting Data
Crosscutting Concepts
•Patterns
•Cause and Effect
•Energy and Matter
KEY VOCABULARY: gravitational potential energy, kinetic energy, potential energy
Guides & Student Sheets
Our kits and modules provide you with everything you need so you can open, review, and teach the material confidently the next day.
- Full downloadable Teacher Guide with background information, detailed instruction, example data and answers
- Downloadable Student Sheets with age appropriate background information, full procedure(s), and analysis questions
- All materials necessary to carry out the investigation
- Safety Data Sheets
Kit Components
- 12 Foam blocks
- 16 Nails
- 6 Plastic tubes, 20-cm long clear
- 6 Plastic tubes, 10-cm long clear
- 6 Steel rods, 10-cm long
- 6 Aluminum rods, 10-cm long
- 6 Steel rods, 5-cm long
- 6 Aluminum rods, 5-cm long
- 1 Transparency: Sample Procedure and Data Table
- 28 Student Worksheets and Guides
- 1 Teacher’s Guide
- Not included and needed for instruction: Balance or scale, marker
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