K'nex Science Lesson Plan
By: Michele Lucas & Jeannie Piechocki
 
        Objectives: 
1.  The students will create a measuring instrument (see picture) that can be used to gather accurate information for making scientific comparisons about balancing and weighing. 

2.  The students will be able to define, observe, and compare the weight of different objects using the measuring instrument they have assembled. 

3.  The students will also be able to experiment with centripetal force using the measuring instrument. (optional activity) 

*Objectives adapted from Proficiency Guide, Upper Elem. 1.1, 1.2, and 1.3) 

  
 
        Procedure:
1.  Begin the class with a discussion about the term 'balanced'. As a class, we will compose a definition for this term and write it on the board. 
2.   In groups, the students will be given K'nex toys to assemble the measuring instrument shown above. 
3.  After assembling is complete, the students will be given various objects to compare. 
4.  The students will be asked first to predict which objects they believe weigh more, less, or equal to each other and record their predictions. 
5.  The student's will use the measuring instrument to validate their predictions.  They will record this data as well. 
6.  As a group, the students will choose 3 other objects on their own to balance and compare. 
7.  Students will then share their findings with the rest of the class. 
8. (optional) The students will be introduced to the term 'centripetal force' that can also be shown through the use of this measuring instrument.
 
Evaluation:
  We will know the students have met the objectives if they have: created a measuring device, predicted which objects balanced or weighed more or less, and if they recorded their predictions and data.
 
    Martin, David Jerner. Elementary Science Methods: A Constructivist Approach.  Delmar Publishers: Albany.1997.

    http://ideanet.doe.state.in.us/science/proficiencies.html