NGSS · Physical Science · Grades 6–8 (Middle School)

MS-PS3-2 Potential Energy

Develop a model to describe that when the arrangement of objects interacting at a distance changes, different amounts of potential energy are stored in the system.

Kentucky 7-PS3-2 uses the same wording.

Teach MS-PS3-2 with a mystery

The Water Battery cover
Science Unlocked lesson set The Water Battery In the mountains of Virginia, engineers built a “battery” with no chemicals inside — just two lakes, one high above the other. It can power about 750,000 homes. How can two lakes store energy — and where is that energy hiding? 1 week · $3.00 · Grades 6–8 See what’s inside
Coming soon to TPT

Save with a bundle

BundleComing soonKinetic & Potential Energy Bundle$7.50Gr 6–8
BundleComing soonMiddle School Physical Science + Engineering Bundle$46.00Gr 6–8
BundleComing soonScience Unlocked Mega Bundle$133.50Gr 3–8

More Physical Science standards

MS-PS1-1Atoms, Molecules & Extended StructuresPhenomenon: Pencil or Diamond?MS-PS1-2Chemical Reactions: Properties Before & AfterPhenomenon: The Fatberg FilesMS-PS1-3Synthetic Materials & Natural ResourcesPhenomenon: The Nylon RushMS-PS1-4States of Matter & Particle MotionPhenomenon: The Vanishing SpoonMS-PS1-5Conservation of Mass in Chemical ReactionsPhenomenon: Not One Atom LostMS-PS1-6Thermal Energy: Exothermic & Endothermic DesignPhenomenon: Hot Meal, No Flame