PS3.B: Conservation of Energy and Energy Transfer

Paul Andersen explains how energy is conserved within a system.  In both macroscopic and microscopic collisions the amount of energy before the collision is equal to the amount after.  He then defines heat as energy transfer between objects with different temperatures.  He explains how heat is transferred via conduction, convection and radiation.  A teaching progression K-12 is also included.

PS3.A: Definitions of Energy

In this video Paul Andersen attempts to explain the age old questions - What is Energy?  Even though it comes in many forms one of the defining characteristics of energy is that it is conserved over time.  He then explains that all energy is either a function of motion, due to its position within a field or radiation.  A teaching progression K-12 is also included.

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.

SEP5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking

Paul Andersen explains how mathematics and computational thinking can be used by scientists to represent variables and by engineers to improve design.  He starts by explaining how mathematics is at the root of all sciences.  He then defines computational thinking and gives you a specific example of computational modeling.  He finishes the video with a teaching progression for this practice.