Brainstorm a list of materials and then locate as many of the materials as possible on the periodic table. Discuss the results. Assign the student one or two elements and have them make a poster describing the element's symbol, properties, and uses. Display the posters. Energy Energy forms and how people use energy serve to introduce studies involving interactions of energy and matter.
Emphasis is placed on heat, light, and sound.
Experiments and demonstrations guide students to an understanding of basic concepts, such as reflection and absorption. Practical application of these concepts and relevance to everyday situations are stressed. Experiment with a ripple tank to observe reflection and refraction and then draw the wave patterns. Stretch a Slinky across the floor. Flick one end sideways to demonstrate that energy can be transferred from one point to another by waves.