Science concepts are easier to grasp when you have a model of a very large or very small system that you can use and manipulate. Energy is one of those hard to grasp concepts, unless you can use hands-on investigations to follow the flow of energy as it moves from one system to another.
Students in my 7th grade Pre-AP science class like to be challenged.
They like to ask lots of questions and solve problems. I like to present them with a scenario and have them come up with the details and how it fits into their everyday lives, and they love this. They want to take ownership in the concept by trying new things and applying the knowledge to what they already know. They love to talk and if you can present the material in such a way, they teach each other.
My Project
The solar beads are a great way to show the students to stop and notice what is happening around them. We take for granted what is familiar, but science is noticing even the small things and trying to make sense of the world.
The activities in these kits will allow students to explore the conservation of energy, and keep track of the transformation as it changes from one type to another. We will start with the definition of heat energy and how it is transferred in one of three ways. The students will build their own thermometer and determine how much energy is given off by burning objects and link this to energy used in the body.
The KNEX models will help us move to renewable energy sources. We will investigate how we can use these sources to create electricity and make moving machinery. The students will compare and contrast the power and efficiency that can be harnessed from wind-, solar-, and water-powered machines while working on projects of real-world significance.
The students learn more and love learning when they are involved in the discovery of new knowledge.
They will use the new equipment to explore how energy transformation drive the weather, the machines they use daily, the technology around them and the systems in their bodies. They will use the new equipment to help gather data and extend their senses. They will use data to construct explanations, predictions and alternative methods for solving problems.
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