GET CHARGED !

Grade Level(s): 3rd and 4th

Subjects: Reading
               Science
               Computer literacy

Learner Outcomes:
Students will:
                1. Read and discuss chapters 6, 7, and 8 of Ben and Me.
                2. Define static electricity.
                3. Demonstrate static electricity using an experiment.
                4. Examine research materials and Internet sites about electricity and lightning.
                5. Choose an experiment from these sites and demonstrate it in class.
                6. Use the Internet to contact an expert on the subject of lightning.
 

Time Frame:  five 45 minute class periods
 

Materials:
Ben and Me by Richard Lawson
Teacher created activity called "Get Charged!"
 

 Technology:
                   Internet access
                1999 World Book Encyclopedia  on  CD-ROM

Teacher Notes:
Students may pair up to do their own experiments  selected from Internet sites. Some students may need help in getting their supplies.  Since part of the lesson calls for personal interaction through email, a note home explaining the procedures might be helpful.  The teacher may wish to do the initial message and monitor student correspondences.

Procedures:
                    1. Read chapters 7, 8 and 9 of Ben and Me and discuss them.
                 2. Discuss and define the term  static electricity.
                 3. Do "Get Charged" activity in groups of 4
                 4. Have students go to Franklin...He's Electric.  Have them  read about
                    electricity and lightning.
                 5. Have students choose one of the activities provided at Electricity Activity and
                    demonstrate it in class. (Students may also choose an experiment from
                    science books or other sites.)
                 6. The photography that is the background for this page was taken by
                    Michael Fewings, author of  Strike One Lightning Photos. When contacted
                    permission he indicated that he welcomes questions about lightning.  On
                    his web page, students can learn that he is a storm chaser.  The teacher
                    should decide how to contact Mr. Fewings and if he would be willing to
                    participate in sharing his experiences.
 

Modifications:
                 Teachers should determine specific needs of students as indicated on
                 Individual Educational Plan.

Enrichment:
Provide students with Lemon Battery Activity here and let them do this on their own and show in class. Use digital  camera and take pictures of various experiments.
Another enrichment activity would be to fly kites.

Evaluation/Assessment:
Evaluation will be an on-going process throughout this lesson.  Students will be expected to participate in reading, discussing, learning vocabulary, participating in group experiment activities, demonstrating selected experiment, and sharing any email from  bonified  experts around the world.

References:
The Franklin Institute Science Museum
Franklin and His Electric Kite
Theater of Electricity
 
 
 

West Virginia Instructional Goals and Objectives:

English and Language Arts
        Reading Comprehension 3.15, 3.16, 3.28
        Listening/Speaking 3.2
        Computer Technology 3.90
Science
        Science History 3.74
        Science Themes 4.49
        Science Technology 3.80
 

National Standards
 
 
   Lesson 1
Lesson 2
Lesson 3
Lesson 4
Lesson 5

Created by:
Deborah Lamp
Jane Richards
Debbie Thomas
Blennerhassett Elementary School, Parkersburg, WV