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Energy Conversion Gizmo: Directions and Learning Expectations

www.explorelearning.com

With this simulation, you will learn about different sources of energy and how energy is converted from one form to another.

To access the Gizmos (simulations at programs) at this site, you will need to sign up for a 30 day free trial.  The site provides directions on how to do this.  If you don't sign up, then your time will be limited to 5 minutes of exploration each day.

To access the Energy Conversions:

Browse Gizmos at the top of the page

Choose Science Gizmos and select Grades 3-5 Physical Science

Select "Energy, Heat, and Light” (last selection in list)

The 3rd choice is the "Energy Conversions"

Open the Gizmo and you will see two radio buttons at the top of the screen: Information Mode and Path Mode. Begin with Information Mode.

This is what you should do:

1. The left-hand purple bar has various tools for your use. Begin this simulation by clicking on, and watching, the demo (at the bottom of the purple tool bar). After watching the demo, click on all of the objects in the gizmo to learn more about them. After reading about each, be sure that you can answer these questions:

a. Some things (objects, items, living things) in the gizmo get energy directly from the sun while others get energy from the sun indirectly. Be able to list those that get energy directly from the sun.

b. What are the energy sources in the gizmo that utilize a generator to generate electricity?

c. Renewable resources are resources that can be replaced in a reasonable amount of time. This gizmo highlights energy from renewable resources. What are four examples?

2. Now click on “Path Mode” and explore various pathways of energy conversion. List three different pathways you created.