Kinetic and Potential Energy

The lesson on kinetic and potential energy introduces students to the two types of mechanical energy. The lesson provides definitions for the two forms and identifies the key factors that are associated with each form. The follow up laboratory is a three-day activity, where the students measure the potential and kinetic energy of a car as it rolls down an inclined plane. The students will observe at what points contain the maximum amount of each type of energy, and they will also pay attention to the conservation of energy. The laboratory worksheet also provides room for hypothesis, and concluding with a discussion and reflection of the results.