Phase 1 – Defined Understanding

► Questions to Investigate

1. What is the relationship between heat, kinetic energy, and temperature?

2. What changes in matter accompany changes in heat?

Phase 2 – Dynamic Understanding

► Investigation One Summary – Lab Goals

In Investigation One, students will study the relationship between heat, kinetic energy of molecules, and temperature. In lab, they will:

1. Compare the height of room temperature liquid in a sealed glass tube when it is place in an environment with greater kinetic energy or higher heat (boiling water).

2. Compare the level of room temperature liquid in the sealed glass tube when it is placed in an environment with less kinetic energy or lower heat (freezing water).

3. Create the graduations for their own thermometer.

4. Use the thermometer they calibrated to bring a beaker of water to three (3) different temperatures.

► Investigation One Summary – Learning Goals

Through these experiments, students will conclude that:

1. Heat is the transfer of thermal energy, which includes both kinetic and potential energy. Temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of a substance or in an environment. When heat is transferred from areas of higher to lower heat, kinetic energy is transferred from areas of higher to lower kinetic energy (higher to lower temperature). The result is an increase in temperature in the area that once had the lower kinetic energy and decrease in temperature in the area that once had the higher kinetic energy. The transfer of heat stops when the kinetic energy (temperature) of both areas is equivalent.

2. In general, matter expands when heated and contracts when cooled because of changes in the kinetic energy of molecules. Changes in heat can also result in changes in the state or phase of matter because of changes in kinetic and potential energy of molecules.

Phase 3 – Deeper Understanding 

► In-Depth Classroom Discussion

These questions can be used to elicit in-depth discussions based on the lab experience. Teachers may use any or all of these discussion points depending on the time available.