Balance Scale: Heavier, Lighter, Equal
Two objects sit on a balance scale. Which side will tip down? Predict whether the left side is heavier, lighter, or the same as the right, then watch the scale reveal the answer.
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Reference Guide
How a Balance Scale Works
- A balance scale has two pans connected to a central beam.
- The heavier side tips down.
- When both sides weigh the same, the beam stays level.
- Scientists use balance scales to compare masses precisely.
Measurement Words
- Heavier means it has more mass and tips the scale down.
- Lighter means it has less mass and the scale tips up on that side.
- Equal means both sides have the same mass and the beam stays flat.
- Weight is how heavy something feels due to gravity.
Difficulty Levels
- Learn gives pairs with a big weight difference so the answer is easy to guess.
- Practice uses pairs that are closer in weight.
- Challenge can include objects that weigh exactly the same.
Standards Covered
- K.MD.1 - Describe measurable attributes of objects, such as length or weight.
- K.MD.2 - Directly compare two objects and describe which is heavier, lighter, or the same.
- 1.MD.1 - Order three or more objects by length or weight; compare two using indirect measurement.
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