Energy of Objects: Epic 4th Grade Classroom Mission

Storyline

The crew will use their knowledge of the speed and energy of objects to selectively destroy debris that is headed toward the surface of Vespus!

The crew is on their way to help Mela with a space center reboot when the entire station explodes! Mela had already evacuated the station as a precaution but now there is multiple pieces of debris that are headed toward Vespus! Students will analyze the speed and composition of the debris to determine which have the most energy and pose the greatest threat upon collision with the surface!

Est. time: 25 min.

Targeted Standards

3-Dimensional Science

Phenomenon

The speed of an object is related to the energy of an object. Energy is transferred when objects collide.

Science and Engineering Practices

Asking questions or defining problems

Ask questions about what would happen if a variable is changed.
Ask questions that can be investigated and predict reasonable outcomes based on patterns such as cause and effect relationships.

Planning and Carrying Out Investigations

Make observations and/or measurements to produce data to seve as the basis for evidence for an explanation of a phenomenon or test a design solution.
Make predictions about what would happen if a variable changes.

Analyzing and Interpreting Data

Analyze and interpret data to make sense of phenomena, using logical reasoning, mathematics, and/or computation.

Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking

Organize simple data sets to reveal patterns that suggest relationships.
Describe, measure, estimate, and/or graph quantities (e.g., area, volume, weight, time) to address scientific and engineering questions and problems.

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

Construct an explanation of observed relationships (e.g., the distribution of plants in the back yard).
Use evidence (e.g., measurements, observations, patterns) to construct or support an explanation or design a solution to a problem.
Identify the evidence that supports particular points in an explanation.

Engaging in Argument from Evidence

Compare and refine arguments based on an evaluation of the evidence presented.
Distinguish among facts, reasoned judgement based on research findings, and speculation in an explanation.
Construct and/or support an argument with evidence, data, and/or a model.
Use data to evaluate claims about cause and effect.

Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information

Read and comprehend grade appropriate complex texts and/or other reliable media to summarize and obtain scientific and technical ideas and describe how they are supported by evidence.
Combine information in written text with that contained in corresponding tables, diagrams, and/or charts to support the engagement in other scientific and/or engineering practices.

Crosscutting Concepts

Energy and matter

Students learn matter is made of particles and energy can be transferred in various ways and betwen objects. Students observe the conservation of matter by tracking matter flows and cycles before and after processes and recognizing the total weight of substances does not change.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

PS3.A: Definitions of Energy

Moving objects contain energy. The faster the object moves, the more energy ithas. Energy can be moved form place to place by moving objects, or through sound, light, or electrical currents. Energy can be converted from one form to anothe form.

PS3.B: Conservation of Energy and Energy Transfer

Moving objects contain energy. The faster the object moves, the more energy ithas. Energy can be moved form place to place by moving objects, or through sound, light, or electrical currents. Energy can be converted from one form to anothe form.

PS3.C: Relationship Between Energy and Forces

When objects collide, contact forces transfer energy so as to change the objects' motions.

Disaster Above Vespus