As students learn about mass measurement, they will first learn the use of the simple balance in elementary school. The triple beam balance is usually introduced in middle school or high school. This tool allows for accurate measurement of mass to 1/10th of a gram. Visually impaired students can be taught to use this tool but will require some assistance.
Alternatively, students can use any number of talking scales available on the market. The electronic OHaus Scout Pro balance allows students to hear the mass of a given object when the balance is connected to a computer on which Logger Pro has been installed. (Both balance and and Logger Pro software available from www.independencescience.com.)
As the material utilized to make pennies was cheapened from mostly copper to mostly zinc in 1962, the mass of a penny decreased. Students will ascertain when this change occurred as they measure a penny from each decade. Please see attached lab.
2. Alternatively large print labels can be made if the student is a large print student
3. Cut out labels as small as possible so as to fit one on the top of each penny.
4. Remove backing and label pennies accordingly.
Mass Measurement – Penny Lab
Download PDF of worksheet in 18 pt. font.
Download PDF of worksheet in 12 pt. font.
Name ______________________________
Date ______________________________
Class _________
A penny is a penny is a penny is a penny…..or IS it?
Complete the following activity to compare the mass of pennies.
You have been given a penny produced in each of the past 6 decades.
You will measure and compare the masses of the pennies.
Decade of Production |
Mass of Penny |
1960’s |
|
1970’s |
|
1980’s |
|
1990’s |
|
2000’s |
|
2010’s |
|
Mass of a Penny
Data Analysis
If possible to obtain pennies produced earlier than 1962, it is possible to expand this lab to earlier decades and to have students research the composition of pennies from that time.
(5-PSI-2 and 5-PSI-3)
By Laura Hospitál
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