Standard 5, Objective 3

Utah Core, 3rd Grade Science

Standard 5, Objective 3 
Demonstrate that heat may be produced when objects are rubbed against one another.

1. Identify several examples of how rubbing one object against another produces heat. 
2. Compare relative differences in the amount of heat given off or force required to move an object over lubricated/non-lubricated surfaces and smooth/rough surfaces (e.g., waterslide with and without water, hands rubbing together with and without lotion). 

Demonstration:

Use the following video to introduce the ideas of friction and heat.

http://www.nsf.gov/news/special_reports/sos/frictionheat.jsp

Activity:

Have all students rub their hands together very fast for 30 seconds. Invite students to share their observations of what they felt. Give every student a small squirt of lotion and repeat the experiment. Discuss the difference and teach the class about lubrication.

Essential Questions:

1. Think about what you know about simple machines. Which of them might produce friction?

2. What are some things you do each day that create friction?