Lesson 2: Molecules on the Move

Overview

Through direct observations and computer simulations students are introduced to the concept that heat is the transfer of thermal energy.

Key Ideas

Lesson Goals

Students will:

Lesson Resources

Lesson Plan

Download Lesson Plan (11 pages, 784 KB)


Student Handout 2.1: Molecules on the Move
(5.16 KB)

Tutorial for teachers: NSTA Science Objects: Energy: Thermal Energy, Heat, & Temperature
(Science Objects are listed under Publications and Products tab.)


Computer simulations of molecular movement:

Phases of Matter from the Miami Science Museum

Particles in Action from Harcourt School Publishers

Three States of Matterfrom Vision Learning

Online Extensions

Explore Physics Central "Physics in your Glass: Racing Molecules."

A description of the molecular motion of water in its various states and explains the differential movement of food coloring though warm and cold water. Included is a “Try this” section that encourages users to try the food coloring experiment with vegetable oil, adding soap, and adding salt.  

Learn how a thermometer works and find out how to build one.

Weather Wiz Kids: Temperature
Find out what temperature means and how it is measured.  Use the temperature conversion, wind chill, and heat index calculators. 

Connection to Maine Agencies

A Maine Energy Education Program (MEEP) representative and will come to interested schools, free of charge, to guide and support the concepts in lesson.


For schools in Aroostook County, a Maine Public Service (MPS) representative will come to interested schools, free of charge, to guide and support concepts developed in this lesson.

Contact us: [email protected]