CK-12 Foundation
Particle Tracks
Did you know physicists can identify new particles by observing the path they take in a particle accelerator? Scholars explore the variables that determine the direction and radius of the circular path different particles take. They...
Physics Classroom
Electric Field Intensity
Learning about electrostatics can be pretty intense! Physics fanatics explore the factors that affect electric field intensity using an interactive from the Static Electricity series. Learners work to complete data tables that relate...
Physics Classroom
Gravitational Field Strength
Budding scientists fall hard for a gravitational field strength activity! Physics pupils compare the masses and distances relative to the center of planets using an interactive from a Circular and Satellite Motion series. Individuals...
Curated OER
The Metamorphosis: Problematic Situation
Are you enjoying the use of all five senses? Imagine that you have to lose one of them; you can choose which one, but it's gone forever. Work through a lesson based on Franz Kafka's The Metamorphosis that asks class...
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Trebuchet Toss
Young engineers work in teams to design and build their own trebuchets according to certain criteria; they must be able to launch a mini marshmallow accurately into a pie tin. Background reading material, a planning sheet for trebuchet...
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Fun with Speedboats!
After reading about marine engineers and naval architects, it's all hands on deck to design and test a speed boat. This lesson is designed for the Next Generation Science Standards in engineering and can be a centerpiece for a STEM...
Science Companion
Simple Machines Design Project
Make your work as a teacher a little easier with a physical science project on simple machines. After introducing young scientists to these devices and identifying their different uses around the school, this project engages...
Curated OER
Why Be Active?
What are some of the benefits of physical activity? Young learners take a look at not just the physical benefits, but also the emotional and social benefits of being physically active. There is a heart rate activity to count their...
Curated OER
Ball Attack
Learners demonstrate how to throw balls. For this physical education lesson, students throw a ball into a barrel. Learners work in teams to earn points.
Curated OER
Simple Machines
Fifth graders observe six simple machines. Through student demonstration they define work and force and calculate the work done. They identify the utility of each of the six simple machines and how each one "exchanges" force for...
Norwich Institute for Language Education
Simple Machines
Planning a unit on simple machines? Save some time and energy with this collection of lessons and activities that explores how these devices are used in the real world to make life a little easier.
Curated OER
Power
If you need to teach about power, this is an outstanding educational resource! It provides definitions of work and power, and gives examples to help junior physicists apply the information. The format is neat and the graphics are...
Colorado Unit Writing Project
Simple Machines
Planning an elementary science unit has never been simpler! These twelve lessons guide young scientists through an exploration of simple machines and their many uses in the real world before asking them to apply their learning...
DiscoverE
Human Arch
Sometimes, we all need somebody to lean on. Scholars create a human arch by leaning against each other. They consider different approaches to making the arch sturdier and stronger.
Curated OER
Forces of Nature: Ring of Fire
Third graders will research the Ring of Fire and be able to share their findings with their partner. They will also demonstrate volcanic eruptions using a baking soda and vinegar volcano model. Then they will discover how continental...
Curated OER
Typical Conceptual Questions for Physics I - Heat
This instructional activity would make a nifty quiz on the laws of thermodynamics. Nine multiple choice questions assess high schoolers' understanding of energy transfer, specific heat capacity, phase change, fusion, and vaporization. It...
Wind Wise Education
What is the Cost of Inefficiency?
What does it cost to keep the lights on? Through a hands-on activity, class members use a watt meter and determine the amount of energy different types of light bulbs use. The class then determines the financial and environmental...
Physics Classroom
Energy Ranking Tasks
Here's an interactive with real potential ... potential energy, that is! Scholars analyze scenarios, then rank objects in order of greatest to least kinetic energy, potential energy, and speed. The interactive provides support materials,...
Curated OER
Worksheet 4
In this math activity, students define the details of a definite integral and how it is used. They also apply math to physics to compute how work for lift is calculated.
Curated OER
Action and Reaction
Students experiment with Newton's Third Law of Motion. In this physics and motion lesson, students complete two experiments to illustrate force and its equal and opposite reaction. Students first work in pairs to exert an equal force on...
Curated OER
Newton's Laws of Motion
Learners investigate the effect of thin films to surface friction. In this physics lesson, students calculate the coefficient of friction using mathematical formulas. They discuss its importance in their everyday lives.
Curated OER
Density and Buoyancy Lesson Plan
Students investigate why some objects float or sink in water. In this physics activity, students calculate the density of clay ball using a mathematical equation. They write a complete lab report about the experiment.
Curated OER
Current Thinking About Magnets
Students construct their own magnet and wire device. In this inquiry instructional activity, students investigate the factors affecting the strength of magnetic forces. They manipulate different variable to determine their effect.
Curated OER
Alka-Seltzer Rockets: How to Build Your Own Rocket
Students create a rocket using Alka-seltzer of baking soda and vinegar. In this physics lesson, students identify the factors affecting the length of time the rocket is propelled. They relate this activity to actual rocket launched in...