Instructional Video

Great Minds: Benjamin Franklin, Founding Nerd

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Did Benjamin Franklin really fly a kite to discover electricity? Answers this question and many others with a video that discusses Franklin and his contributions to science. There isn't time to cover all of his inventions and contributions to society, so the video focuses on electricity. 

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Instructional Ideas
  • Have students read Ben and Me, a short historical fiction novel written from the point of view of Franklin's pet mouse, Amos
  • Perform experiments rubbing metal rods with material to see if you can make it attract or repel balloons
Classroom Considerations
  • Be aware YouTube comments are open to the public and might lead pupils astray
  • The video is the fifth in a 25-part series
  • This video is hosted on YouTube
Pros
  • Provides closed captioning, which can help viewers follow along
  • Engaging and entertaining from beginning to end
  • Dispells common misconceptions
Cons
  • None