Motion and Matter
Students explore Magnetism and gravity. Students work with magnets and paper clips, wheel-and-axle systems, paper air twirlers, and rotating tops. Through their investigations, students find that both magnetism and gravity can pull, and magnetism can sometimes push as well. Both forces can make things move even when not in direct contact with another object. Students refine their investigations and their abilities to use science practices and collect data regarding their observations of the interaction between paper clips and magnets. Students are introduced to the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces.
Curriculum Map
Unit: Motion and Matter
State Standards
3-PS2-1. Provide evidence to explain the effect of multiple forces, including friction, on an object. Include balanced forces that do not change the motion of the object and unbalanced forces that do change the motion of the object.
3-PS2-3. Conduct an investigation to determine the nature of the forces between two magnets based on their orientations and distance relative to each other.
3-PS2-4. Define a simple design problem that can be solved by using interactions between magnets.
3.3-5-ETS1-1. Define a simple design problem that reflects a need or a want. Include criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost that a potential solution must meet.
3.3-5-ETS1-2. Generate several possible solutions to a given design problem. Compare each solution based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the design problem.
4.3-5-ETS1-3. Plan and carry out tests of one or more design features of a given model or prototype in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify which features need to be improved. Apply the results of tests to redesign a model or prototype.
Essential Questions
What causes objects to move?
How can we use tools to measure the mass of materials in mixtures?
How can some objects push and pull on one another without touching?
How can we use our observations of systems to predict motion?
How can we use observed patterns of motion to design solutions to engineering problems?
Students will...
Ask questions and defining problems
Developing and use models
Plan and carrying out investigations
Analyze and interpret data
Construct explanations and design solutions
Engage in an argument from evidence
Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information