• 4th Grade Unit 2: Energy "Big Science Words"

    In this unit, we will be using some words that are unique to Science. It is not the intention that all students will master these words, but with exposure to these words, some students may start using them appropriately. Consider using the words with your child in order to help them see science in the world around them.

    Conservation of Energy: a principle stating that energy cannot be created or destroyed, but can be altered [converted or transformed] from one form to another.

    Energy: the ability to do work. Objects possess more motion energy when moving faster (NYSED).

    Energy Conversion: the conversion of one form of energy into another [e.g., from moving objects or by sound, light, heat, or electric currents].

    Energy Transfer: energy of the same form (e.g., energy of motion, heat energy) can be transferred from one object to another through a collision or direct or indirect contact (e.g., conduction or convection).

    Force: an interaction that causes an affected object to be pushed or pulled in a certain direction.

    Motion Energy: [kinetic] energy that an object possesses by virtue of being in motion.

    Non-renewable Resource: a resource that forms at a rate much slower than the rate at which it is consumed.

    Renewable Resource: a resource that can be replaced at the same rate at which it is consumed.

    Stored Energy: the energy possessed by an object by virtue of its position relative to others, stresses within itself, electric charge, and other factors. Includes gravitational, chemical and elastic potential energies.