Potential Energy Activities 1

Teacher created material with 6 student activities which explore the factors that effect potential energy. Directly relates to this GLE, especially gravitational potential energy. One activity is about elastic potential energy. Some suggestions for assessment are included.

Weblink address (URL): 
Potential Energy Activities 1

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

Objective:

  • The main objective of this mini teach is to introduce the concept of potential energy.  
  • The students will recognize that potential energy is the ability to do work.  
  • The students will identify the two factors that effect potential energy.
  • The following activities will demonstrate the effect of height and weight on potential energy. 
  • The activities are designed for the intermediate level.

 

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Understanding

Helpful Hints

Materials Needed:

  • weights
  • wooden blocks   
  • tennis ball       
  • rubber bands
  • nails               
  • empty spools         
  • meter stick 
  • hammer              
  • wooden matches       
  • string 
  • flat empty can      
  • paper clips          
  • ruler with center groove
  • large rock          
  • scotch tape         
  • scissors
  • pebble             
  • buttons
  • books of various widths

References

Contributors: 
Lindsay Talarico
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation