STEM Thursday, Tom Browne Middle, October 8th, 2015
Presenters: Ms. Lopez, Ms. Nieto, Ms. Moore, Ms. Price, Ms. Scherer
Hot Rod Conduction Lesson Plan
Hot Rod Conduction Lab
Engage
What are the characteristics of metals?
What are the characteristics of alloys?
Making Metals Movie
Explore
Problem: Which type of metal is the best conductor of heat?
Hypothesis: If brass, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and nickel are exposed to heat through a lit candle, then ____________will melt the wax at the end of the metal rod first.
especially when there is heat involved!
Procedure:
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Insert wax in each indentation at the end of each spoke on the conductometer.
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Light candle or burner. Place the conductometer above the flame BUT NOT TOUCHING IT! You want it to be about an inch or so above the flame.
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Begin timing your trials now. You want to observe the wax as the rod is heated- record when it melts on each metal rod.
Explain
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What is the independent variable?
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What is the dependent variable?
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Which metal was the best conductor of heat?
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Did the evidence support your hypothesis? Why or why not?
Elaborate
What metals and alloys can you find around your house?
Evaluate
