Energy Detectives Worksheet
Science Investigation Log
Energy Detectives Worksheet
Name:
Date: Class:
The Detective Rule: Energy is Invisible!
We cannot see energy directly—there is no color, shape, or particle labeled "pure energy." However, we know energy is present because of the clues it leaves behind whenever it causes observable changes.
1. Motion
Speeding up, falling, rolling, vibrating
2. Sound
Rumbles, clicks, music, bangs, echoes
3. Light
Glowing bulbs, flames, sparks, illumination
4. Thermal / Heat
Warming surfaces, melting ice, steam
1
Spotting the Clues: Match the Evidence
Write which evidence clue(s) prove energy is active: Motion, Sound, Light, or Heat.
A. Thunder crashing in a storm:
A sudden loud roar shakes classroom window panes.
Evidence:
B. A toaster crisping bread:
Metal coils turn bright orange and warm the kitchen.
Evidence:
C. A soccer ball kicked across grass:
The ball flies toward the goal net after shoe contact.
Evidence:
D. Striking a wooden matchstick:
Friction ignites a sudden flame and hissing sound.
Evidence:
2
Field Investigation: The Active Playground
Even though you cannot see energy itself, you observe what it does. Analyze each situation below.
Playground Situation
Observable Evidence (Check)
Explain The Evidence
Situation A: The Swings
A student pumps legs high; chains squeak and swing back and forth.
Motion (swinging) Sound (squeaking) Light (glowing)
Situation B: Whistle Blowing
The coach blows hard into a silver whistle to signal line-up time.
Sound (sharp pitch) Motion (vibrating air) Heat (melting)
Situation C: Slide in the Sun
By afternoon, the metal surface of the slide feels hot to the touch.
Heat (warmed metal) Light (sun rays) Sound (humming)
Remember: When nothing moves, sounds, warms, or glows, energy is not currently in action! Page 1 of 2
Case File: Hidden Energy Revealed
Part II: Tracing Evidence of Energy Transfers
Detective Name:
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The Before & After Test: What Changed?
Because energy causes changes, comparing an object before and after reveals energy in action. Write what observable evidence appears.
A. Flashlight
Before: Dark room, bulb is cold.
Action: Click switch to ON.
Observable Evidence:
B. Guitar String
Before: Still string, silent room.
Action: Pluck string with pick.
Observable Evidence:
C. Rubbing Palms
Before: Hands rest flat and cool.
Action: Rub together fast for 10s.
Observable Evidence:
4
Multi-Evidence Case: Microwave Popcorn
Scenario: You put a flat bag of cold, hard kernels into the microwave and start it. Two minutes later, you open the door to a hot, puffed bag full of fluffy popcorn. Identify 3 different clues proving energy was at work:
Clue #1: Sound Evidence
What sound proved energy was inside?
Clue #2: Thermal Evidence
What temperature change occurred?
Clue #3: Motion Evidence
What movement took place?
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Scientific Argument: Solve the Detective Debate
Detective Case Study: Jordan says: "A battery sitting alone on the desk has no energy because it is silent, dark, and still." Maya says: "The battery DOES have energy stored inside, but we need to connect it to a device to produce evidence."
Who is correct? Describe an experiment you could do to prove energy is stored inside the battery:
State what you would build/connect and what observable clue (light, sound, motion, or heat) would appear.
Energy Detective Badge Earned: Evidence of Energy Mastered! Page 2 of 2
