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In this activity, learners explore how objects can have positive, negative, or neutral charges, which attract, repel and move between objects. Learners charge various materials and observe their interactions. Winter is an ideal time to perform these experiments (because there is less water vapor in the air); if it is humid, use a hair dryer to dry the objects, surfaces, and air around the work area.
- 5 to 10 minutes
- 45 to 60 minutes
- $1 - $5 per group of students
- Ages 8 - 14
- Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- copy of worksheet (printed out on letter - 8.5 x 11 inch paper)
- pencil
- cellophane tape (invisible tape)
- Paper clip unbent so it is in the shape of a W with a 12 inch long string or thread (crochet thread or thing kite string work well) tied in the middle (prepare beforehand).
- Packing peanut (puffed wheat works as a substitute)
- Plastic spoons (2)
- Saran Wrap or other static plastic wrap
- Cotton clothing
Subjects
-
Mathematics
-
Data Analysis and Probability
- Data Analysis
- Data Collection
-
Data Analysis and Probability
-
Physical Sciences
-
Electricity and Magnetism
- Electric Charges and Currents
-
Structure and Properties of Matter
- Atomic Structure
- Elementary Particles and Nuclear Physics
-
Electricity and Magnetism
-
The Nature of Science
-
The Scientific Process
- Conducting Investigations
- Gathering Data
- Formulating Explanations
- Communicating Results
-
The Scientific Process
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- read
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves teamwork and communication skills
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Components that are part of this resource:
Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Rights:
- All rights reserved, University of Kansas, 2006
Funding Sources:
- University of Kansas
- National Science Foundation, EPS-0236913
- State of Kansas through the Kansas Technology Enterprise Corporation
- National Science Foundation, EPP-0354836
- National Science Foundation, EPS-90903806
- Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation