This Has Potential
Kinetic and Potential Energy
Grades 5-8

The Mission

47 min

Storyline

When a dormant volcano starts to heat up, the crew must apply their knowledge of kinetic and potential energy to protect the nearby populace.

Discovering a dome of cooled magma where a science base should be, the crew must determine which of several objects has the most potential to crack the dome. Then, when a massive boulder...

3-Dimensional Science

Phenomenon

The Law of Conservation of Energy balances potential and kinetic energy.

Science and Engineering Practices

Developing and Using Models

Using potential and kinetic energy models to predict the behavior of moving objects and seismic events.

Analyzing and Interpreting Data

Analyzing temperature data and sensor readings to identify sources of energy and heat.

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

Constructing explanations for the causes of volcanic activity and devising strategies to mitigate potential harm.

Crosscutting Concepts

Cause and Effect

Analyzing the causes of volcanic activity and identifying factors affecting potential and kinetic energy.

Energy and Matter

Exploring the transformation of energy from potential to kinetic and the generation of heat through friction.

Systems and System Models

Understanding the interconnectedness of factors influencing volcanic eruptions and seismic activity.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

ESS2.B: Plate Tectonics and Large-Scale System Interactions

Exploring volcanic processes, heat generation, and seismic activity.

PS3: Energy

Understanding potential and kinetic energy transfer and the role of friction in energy conversion.

ETS1: Engineering Design

Developing strategies to redirect or mitigate the impact of moving objects and natural events.

Resources

Targeted Standards

Timeline