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3rd Grade Science and Engineering Lessons for Teachers

Lesson Title

Essential Question

Standards (NGSS and Common Core Mathematics)

Does quantity of magnets and distance from the magnetometer sensor affect the strength of the magnetic field?

  • 3-PS2-3: Ask questions to determine cause and effect relationships of electric or magnetic interactions between two objects not in contact with each other.  
  • 3-PS2-4:  Define a simple design problem that can be solved by applying scientific ideas about magnets.

Can you navigate a magnetic field map using a magnetometer like a sea turtle?

  • 3-PS2-3:  Ask questions to determine cause and effect relationships of electric or magnetic interactions between two objects not in contact with each other.  

How do a gyroscope and accelerometer sense movement?

  • 3-PS2-2:  Make observations and/or measurements of an object’s motion to provide evidence that a pattern can be used to predict future motion.

Can you use and interpret the data from the luminosity and ambient temperature sensor data to “detect” zombies?

  • 3-5-ETS1-1:  Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time or cost.
  • 3-5-ETS1-3:  Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.

Can you design or create a cushion that will dampen the impact of an object when dropped from 3 feet high?

  • 3-PS2-1:  Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence of the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on the motion of an object.
  • 3-PS2-2:  Make observations and/or measurements of an object’s motion to provide evidence that a pattern can be used to predict future motion.
  • 3-5-ETS1-1:  Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time or cost.
  • 3-5-ETS1-2:  Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
  • 3-5-ETS1-3:  Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered to identify aspects of a model or prototype that can be improved.

Do different colors absorb different amounts of heat?

3-LS4-4:  Make a claim about the merit of a solution to a problem caused when the environment changes and the types of plants and animals that live there may change.

Do different materials conduct electricity differently?

  • 3-PS2-3:  Ask questions to determine cause and effect relationships of electric of magnetic interactions between two objects not in contact with each other.

Can you locate the best spot in the classroom to grow a plant?

  • 3-LS4-4:  Make a claim about the merit of a solution to a problem caused when the environment changes and the types of plants and animals that live there may change.