6th Grade Science Unit 8

Big Idea:

Force and motion are related to potential and kinetic energy.

Student Expectations:

Priority TEKS

6.8A [Readiness Standard] compare and contrast potential and kinetic energy.

6.8C [Readiness Standard] calculate average speed using distance and time measurements.

6.8E [Supporting Standard] Investigate how inclined planes can be used to change the amount of force to move an object.

Focus TEKS

6.8B [Supporting Standard] Identify and describe the changes in position, direction, and speed of an object when acted upon by unbalanced forces..

6.8D [Supporting Standard] Measure and graph changes in motion.

Ongoing TEKS

6.2A [Process Standard] Plan and implement comparative and descriptive investigations by making observations, asking well-defined questions, and using appropriate equipment and technology.

6.2B [Process Standard] Design and implement experimental investigations by making observations, asking well defined questions, formulating testable hypotheses, and using appropriate equipment and technology.

6.2C [Process Standard] Collect and record data using the International System of Units (SI) and qualitative means such as labeled drawings, writing, and graphic organizers.

6.2D [Process Standard] Construct tables and graphs, using repeated trials and means, to organize data and identify patterns.

6.2E [Process Standard] Analyze data to formulate reasonable explanations, communicate valid conclusions supported by the data, and predict trends.

6.3A [Process Standard] In all fields of science, analyze, evaluate, and critique scientific explanations by using empirical evidence, logical reasoning, and experimental and observational testing, including examining all sides of scientific evidence of those scientific explanations, so as to encourage critical thinking by the student.

6.3D [Process Standard] Relate the impact of research on scientific thought and society, including the history of science and contributions of scientists as related to the content.

6.4A [Process Standard] Use appropriate tools , including journals/notebooks, beakers, Petri dishes, meter sticks, graduated cylinders, hot plates, test tubes, balances, microscopes, thermometers, calculators, computers, timing devices, and other necessary equipment to collect, record, and analyze information.

Student Learning Targets:

• I will compare and contrast potential and kinetic energy.
• I will identify and describe the changes in position, direction, and speed of an object when acted upon by unbalanced forces.
• I will calculate average speed using distance and time.
• I will measure and graph changes in motion.
• I will investigate how inclined planes can be used to change the amount of force to move an object.
• Writing: I will devise a plan to move a heavy box by using an inclined plane and explain how the plan makes the job easier.

Essential Questions:

• What are some examples of potential and kinetic energy you have seen in real life?
• What would a day be like without the use of kinetic and potential energy?
• What is the difference between balanced forces and unbalanced forces acting on an object?
• What must scientists know to accurately and precisely determine how forces affect the motion of an object?
• What are examples from everyday life in which force leads to changes in an object's speed or direction?
• How does surface affect the distance and speed a toy car travels?
• What happens when an inclined plane is used to lift a load?
• How does an inclined plane work to change the amount of force required to move an object?
• What evidence would you need to support the idea that the force required to lift a load is directly proportional to an object’s weight?
• How would you justify how simple machines change the amount of force required to lift a load?
• How could you develop a project that describes how a specific simple or compound machine is constructed, how it functions, and how it affects the force needed to lift a load?

Extra Information:

Adopted Textbook: Accelerate Learning, STEMScopes

District Grading Policy

Texas Gateway Online Resource Center