Source: Lessons in Matter and Energy
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Lessons in Matter and Energy, from WOSU Public Media, is a series of eight learning modules that demonstrate physical science concepts and phenomena. The series captures some of the most engaging demonstrations presented at the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) in Columbus. The demonstrations clarify essential properties of matter and the nature and transfer of energy. Accompanying each module is a Teacher’s Guide, on video, and a set of assessment tools which include suggested tasks to test comprehension, a scoring rubric and a student booklet. Lessons in Matter and Energy is intended to complement curricular resources in grades 4 to 8.
Teacher's Guide Video (Video)
Assessment (Document)
Student Booklet (Document)
Conduction is a direct transfer of energy as it requires contact between two objects. Thermal energy moves from particle to particle throughout a material as heat is conducted. Heat energy always moves from a warmer object or area to a cooler object or area. If you hold an ice cube in your hand, heat energy moves from your hand to the ice cube, therefore melting it.
This demonstration traces the transfer of thermal energy by conduction with the use of a space shuttle tile. Space shuttle tiles are made of ceramic silica which is derived from sand. Here a demonstrator holds a space shuttle tile in his hand and heats up a spot on it with a blow torch. His hand is unharmed because the tile has very low thermal conductivity. Next the demonstrator touches a piece of flash paper to the hot spot on the tile. The flash paper catches fire upon contact because it has a very low point of combustion.
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