Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will understand how heat, light, and electrical energy make things happen.

Materials and Prep

• Pen and paper
• A small candle
• A flashlight
• A battery-powered toy or device

No prior knowledge is required for this lesson.

Activities

1. Activity 1: Candle Experiment

Light the candle and observe how the heat from the flame causes the wax to melt and the flame to produce light. Discuss how the heat energy is being transferred from the flame to the surroundings, and how the light energy is being emitted.

2. Activity 2: Flashlight Experiment

Turn off the lights and turn on the flashlight. Observe how the light is produced when electrical energy from the batteries powers the bulb. Discuss how the electrical energy is converted into light energy.

3. Activity 3: Battery-Powered Toy Experiment

Take apart a battery-powered toy or device (with adult supervision). Examine the different components and discuss how the electrical energy from the batteries makes the toy work. Identify the wires, switches, and other parts involved in the transfer and transformation of electrical energy.

Talking Points

• Heat Energy
• "Heat energy is a form of energy that can make things warm or hot."
• "When we light a candle, the heat from the flame causes the wax to melt and the flame to produce light."
• "Heat energy can be transferred from one object to another, like when you touch a hot stove and feel the heat on your hand."
• Light Energy
• "Light energy is a type of energy that allows us to see things."
• "When we turn on a flashlight, the electrical energy from the batteries powers the bulb, which produces light."
• "Light energy can travel in straight lines and can be reflected or absorbed by objects."
• Electrical Energy
• "Electrical energy is the energy that comes from electricity."
• "In battery-powered toys or devices, the electrical energy from the batteries makes the toy work by powering the circuits and components inside."
• "We can control the flow of electrical energy using switches and wires."