Embedded Files
Strand 4.2: ENERGY TRANSFER
Energy is present whenever there are moving objects, sound, light, or heat. The faster a given object is moving, the more energy it possesses. When objects collide, energy can be transferred from one object to another causing the objects' motions to change. Energy can also be transferred from place to place by electrical currents, heat, sound, or light. Devices can be designed to convert energy from one form to another.
Standard 4.2.1
Construct an explanation to describe the cause and effect relationship between the speed of an object and the energy of that object. Emphasize using qualitative descriptions of the relationship between speed and energy like fast, slow, strong, or weak. An example could include a ball that is kicked hard has more energy and travels a greater distance than a ball that is kicked softly. (PS3.A)
Standard 4.2.2
Ask questions and make observations about the changes in energy that occur when objects collide. Emphasize that energy is transferred when objects collide and may be converted to different forms of energy. Examples could include changes in speed when one moving ball collides with another or the transfer of energy when a toy car hits a wall. (PS3.B, PS3.C)
Standard 4.2.3
Plan and carry out an investigation to gather evidence from observations that energy can be transferred from place to place by sound, light, heat, and electrical currents. Examples could include sound causing objects to vibrate and electric currents being used to produce motion or light. (PS3.A, PS3.B)
Standard 4.2.4
Design a device that converts energy from one form to another. Define the problem, identify criteria and constraints, develop possible solutions using models, analyze data from testing solutions, and propose modifications for optimizing a solution. Emphasize identifying the initial and final forms of energy. Examples could include solar ovens that convert light energy to heat energy or a simple alarm system that converts motion energy into sound energy. (PS3.B, PS3.D, ETS1.A, ETS1.B, ETS1.C)
4th grade
4-PS3-4 Energy
Apply scientific ideas to
design, test, and refine a
device that converts
energy from one form to
another.*
Beaty, A. (2013). Rosie Revere, engineer.
A little girl works to design something that will help her aunt fly. After multiple
failures and encouragement from her teacher, she finally succeeds. Use to
introduce the concept of engineering and persevering to solve a problem.
Spires, A. (2014). The most magnificent thing.
A little girl tries to build a magnificent contraption, but can’t seem to get it right.
She uses diagrams to plan her design, and faces failure before she finally
succeeds. Use to introduce engineering concepts.
Drummond, A. (2015). Energy island: How one community harnessed the wind and
changed their world.
The rather ordinary citizens of Samsø have accomplished something
extraordinary―in just ten years they have reduced their carbon emissions by
140% and become almost completely energy independent. A narrative tale and
a science book in one, this inspiring true story proves that with a little hard work
and a big idea, anyone can make a huge step toward energy conservation.
Mayer, L. (2013). Newton and me.
While at play with his dog, Newton, a young boy discovers the laws of force and
motion in his everyday activities. Told in rhyme, Lynne Mayer s Newton and Me
follows these best friends on an adventure as they apply physics to throwing a
ball, pulling a wagon, riding a bike, and much more. They will realize that
Newton s Laws of Motion describe experiences they have every day, and they
will recognize how forces affect the objects around them.
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