Energy
Students investigate electricity and simple circuits. They explore energy transfer through waves, repeating patterns of motion, that result in sound and motion. They learn that energy is present whenever there is motion, electric current, sound, light, or heat, and that energy can transfer from one place to another. Students learn how the amount of energy transferred changes when balls of different masses hit a stationary object.
Curriculum Map
Unit: Energy
State Standards
4-PS3-1. Use evidence to construct an explanation relating the speed of an object to the energy of that object.
4-PS3-2. Make observations to show that energy can be transferred from place to place by sound, light, heat, and electric currents.
4-PS3-3. Ask questions and predict outcomes about the changes in energy that occur when objects collide.
4-PS3-4. Apply scientific principles of energy and motion to test and refine a device that converts kinetic energy to electrical energy or uses stored energy to cause motion or produce light or sound.
4-PS4-1. Develop a model of a simple mechanical wave (including sound) to communicate that waves (a) are regular patterns of motion along which energy travels and (b) can cause objects to move.
4-PS4-2. Develop a model to describe that light must reflect off an object and enter the eye for the object to be seen.
4-PS4-3. Develop and compare multiple ways to transfer information through encoding, sending, receiving, and decoding a pattern.
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.
3-5-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.
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
How does energy transfer in a complete circuit?
How does energy transfer between objects or systems?
What do waves have to do with energy?
How do humans use energy to meet their needs?
How do we perceive light?
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