Middle School Resource

Balancing Act by PhET

This simulation will allow students to play with objects on a teeter totter to learn about balance.

Using the simulation, students will:

• Predict how objects of various masses can be used to make a plank balance.
• Predict how changing the positions of the masses on the plank will affect the motion of the plank.
• Write rules to predict which way a plank will tilt when objects are placed on it.
• Use your rules to solve puzzles about balancing.

Related NY State Academic Standards: S.3.PS.2.1, S.MS.PS.2.2, MST4.E.PS5.1, and MST4.I.PS5.1!

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