How can we help kids visualize the charges that cause static forces? This is the question I wrestled with for a while before developing this model. I love that only the negative electrons can move, just like in real life. I also love that students can easily see when charges are balanced and when they’re not. This activity builds on the previous two activities Charged Up 1: Tracking Static Forces (free) and Charged Up 2: Tracking Static Forces . This is the most challenging of the three as it involves induction.
Related Resources
This is the second of three related resources.
★ Charged Up 1: Tracking Static Forces (free)
★ Charged Up 2: Tracking Static Forces
Concepts Addressed
• Typically only electrons leave their atoms.
• Electrons are negatively charged; protons are positively charged
• Electrons and protons create the charges behind electrostatic forces.
• Items can be charged at a distance.
Materials Needed
Copies of the worksheets, clear electrons (directions for making these are included in the free activity, worksheet 1)
Time Required
This lab takes about 30 mins.
Student Sheets
• Scaffolded writing prompts & lab reporting
