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Physical Science · Energy

Energy Conversions: Design a Device That Changes Energy

Trace energy through simple devices, distinguish transfer from conversion, and design or refine a device that changes energy from one form to another.

Lesson plan

Energy Conversions: Design a Device That Changes Energy

A step-by-step guide to help you teach this lesson.

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Lesson overview

What students will learn

  • Distinguish energy transfer from energy conversion using device examples.
  • Trace an energy pathway from a source to one or more outputs.

Key science ideas

  • A battery can provide energy to a circuit that produces light, sound, or motion.
  • A device can both transfer energy and convert energy.
  • Useful outputs are not always the only outputs; devices can also produce sound or thermal energy.

Lesson at a glance

  • Grade 4
  • 50 min
  • ~12 min prep
  • 4-PS3-4
  • 6 materials

What’s included

  • Lesson Plan
  • Investigation
  • Teacher Slides
  • Printable Worksheet
  • Teacher Answer Key
  • Interactive Activity
  • Vocabulary