Choose a system
Decide which energy stores and transfers belong in the model.
AP Physics 1 · Unit 3 · Work, Energy, and Power
Unit 3 Energy Concept Review
Review work, energy stores, system boundaries, springs, and power using simulation observations and conceptual comparisons.
Start lesson- Free
- No account required
- Self-paced
Start guided lesson
Learn by doing
Three ways to check your understanding
Compare changes
Predict effects of changing height, speed, spring displacement, or elapsed time.
Explain the accounting
Use energy evidence to distinguish conservation, external work, and changes in mechanical energy.
The big idea
Connect the ideas before choosing a model.
Start with the boundary
Choose the system before classifying work and energy changes. Conservation of total energy and conservation of mechanical energy require different accounting.
Match the quantity to the question
Work measures an energy transfer; power measures its rate. Kinetic, gravitational, and elastic energy respond differently to variable changes.
A useful strategy
Build an energy explanation before trying a calculation.
System → stores and transfers → prediction
Teaching this topic?Classroom fit, AP connections, and support
- Classroom fit
- Use after the unit for independent review, partner discussion, or a projected check of student reasoning.
- Before students begin
- Complete the Unit 3 work, energy, spring, and power lessons.
- Built-in support
- Prepared scenes, guided prompts, and feedback on lesson questions.
- AP Physics 1 connections
- Unit 3: cumulative conceptual review of work, energy, and power.
- Check for understanding
- Ask students to explain an energy-bar change using a named interaction and a chosen system.
Ready to put the ideas together?
The first scene is set up. Start the lesson and explore.