PS3.D: Energy in Chemical Processes and Everyday Life

In this video Paul Andersen explains how energy is used in chemical processes and everyday life.  Students should understand that energy is neither created or destroyed but is converted.  Most of the energy is delivered to our planet from the sun and is harvested through the process of photosynthesis.  A K-12 teaching progression is also included.
 

LS2.B: Cycle of Matter and Energy Transfer in Ecosystems

In this video Paul Andersen explains how matter moves from the environment into living organisms and back into the environment.  Food webs are used to show how matter and energy move through organisms.  Ecological pyramids show that matter and energy are lost as they move from producers to consumers.

CCC4: Systems and System Models

In this video Paul Andersen explains how systems can be used to understand phenomenon in science and create better designs in engineering.  He starts by defining the characteristics of a system and describes how system models can be used to better understand the world.  For example a system model of the water cycle can show the cycling of matter on the surface of the Earth.  He ends with a progression of instruction for a K-12 science classroom.

SEP2: Developing and Using Models

Paul Andersen explains the importance of modeling in science and engineering.  Models are used by scientists to explain phenomenon.  Unlike mental models, conceptual models can be shared by all scientists to improve our understanding of the Universe.  Engineers use models study systems and test designs.