Skate through a simulation on energy with an a activity that uses a computer simulation of a skater to reinforce the concept of conservation of energy. The resource guides pupils through scenarios using the computer simulation to see the effects of gravity and friction on the gravitational potential energy and kinetic energy of the skater. 

Concepts

energy conservation, kinetic energy, gravitational potential energy, potential energy, skateboarding, energy, energy conversion, technology resources

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Instructional Ideas

• Review the teacher-submitted lessons that feature the Energy Skate Park simulation and use them in class

Classroom Considerations

• The class should have a basic understanding of computer simulations
• The simulation runs on Java
• The third installment in an eight-part series

Pros

• The worksheet asks learners to predict the graphs of energy versus time before running the simulation
• The activity provides an opportunity for the class to experiment and try to get the skater to do tricks

Cons

• None

Common Core

8.F.B.5 MP4