Unit Title: Heat and Temperature

Grade Level: 7

Subject: Science

Time Frame: 4 weeks

Unit Overview: In this unit, students will explore the concepts of heat and temperature. They will learn about the difference between heat and temperature, how heat is transferred, and the effects of heat on different materials. Students will also investigate the relationship between temperature and the expansion and contraction of materials. Through hands-on experiments and activities, students will develop an understanding of the role of heat and temperature in everyday life.

Unit Goals: 1. Understand the difference between heat and temperature. 2. Investigate how heat is transferred. 3. Explore the effects of heat on different materials. 4. Understand the relationship between temperature and the expansion and contraction of materials. 5. Apply knowledge of heat and temperature to real-life situations.

Key Concepts: 1. Heat vs. temperature 2. Heat transfer (conduction, convection, radiation) 3. Effects of heat on materials 4. Expansion and contraction of materials 5. Applications of heat and temperature in everyday life

Assessment: - Formative assessments: Class discussions, group work, exit tickets, and observations during experiments and activities. - Summative assessments: Unit test, written reflections, and a final project.

Week 1: Introduction to Heat and Temperature - Introduce the unit and discuss the difference between heat and temperature. - Conduct a class discussion on the sources of heat and examples of temperature. - Watch videos and conduct experiments to explore the concepts of heat and temperature.

Week 2: Heat Transfer - Introduce the three methods of heat transfer: conduction, convection, and radiation. - Conduct experiments to demonstrate each method of heat transfer. - Discuss real-life examples of heat transfer and its importance.

Week 3: Effects of Heat on Materials - Investigate how heat affects different materials (e.g., expansion and contraction). - Conduct experiments to observe the effects of heat on various materials. - Discuss the practical applications of understanding the effects of heat on materials.

Week 4: Applications of Heat and Temperature - Explore real-life applications of heat and temperature (e.g., cooking, weather, thermal energy). - Engage in a final project where students apply their knowledge of heat and temperature to a real-life scenario. - Review and prepare for the unit test.

Resources and Materials: - Textbooks and reference materials - Videos and online resources - Thermometers - Heat sources (e.g., hot plates, Bunsen burners) - Various materials for experiments (e.g., metal, plastic, water) - Measuring tools (e.g., rulers, scales) - Worksheets and handouts

Differentiation: - Provide additional resources and readings for advanced learners. - Offer hands-on experiments and activities for kinesthetic learners. - Provide visual aids and diagrams for visual learners. - Offer extra support and scaffolding for struggling learners.

Note: This unit plan is based on the Alberta curriculum for Grade 7 Science. Teachers should adapt and modify the plan to meet the specific needs and requirements of their students and school.