Potential to Kinetic Energy Activity

A fun and interactive way for students to understand and experience what potential and kinetic energy is can be done by simply buying a bag of elastic bands, and connecting a computer to a projector. 

Before beginning the activity, I review with students the definitions of our recently learned science terms, and explain to the students that today they will be learning two new terms: potential energy and kinetic energy. Next I hold up and rubber band as if I am about to shoot it (make sure you are pointing in a safe direction). I explain to the students that when I pull the elastic back and hold it there, I am creating potential energy. I then tell the students that when I let go of the elastic band I will be converting the potential energy into kinetic energy. I then let go of the elastic band. Before moving on to the next part of the lesson I ask the students to put in their own words what potential energy is and what kinetic energy is. After a small discussion I provide the students with the scientific definitions and add the definitions to the science term board. I then play a movie clip from Brave, where the main character is in the archery tournament shooting for her own hand in marriage. At the moment where the character pulls back the arrow I ask the students to call out what is happening to the bow and arrow (potential energy), I then unpause the clip and pause it again when the arrow almost hits the bullseye. At this time I asks the students to call out what is happening, (potential energy has been converted to kinetic energy).

The only way the last part of this lesson can work is if there is strong classroom management and safety in the classroom. Depending on your students you may or may not want to do this (however, this is the part that the students most enjoy). Put students in groups of 4 to 6 and explain to students they will have their own bow and arrow competition. Demonstrate the students how to shoot the rubber band as well as what to do and what not to do. Have the first group line up, and point in a safe direction. Explain to the students that when you say "potential energy" the students must create potential energy, when you say transfer the students must release the rubber band and shout "kinetic energy". 

This sounds like a lot but it really only takes 10 to 15 minutes if you plan and prepare ahead of time. The students love this activity and really give them a hands on experience and connection to potential and kinetic energy :)