Types of Energy word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

Types of Energy word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this types of energy puzzle set for my 3rd and 4th graders during our physical science unit. The kids knew energy was everywhere but had no idea there were different forms like thermal, chemical, or nuclear. So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like thermal, chemical, nuclear, electrical, light, sound, mechanical, gravitational, elastic, potential, kinetic, heat, motion, and transfer. Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help the different types finally stick.

The PDF is four pages. Three puzzles plus one answer key page. The word search works well for quiet time after recess. The scramble gets them talking because they argue about whether a flashlight gives off light energy, electrical energy, or both. The crossword I use for partners. I added a couple simple sun, battery, and speaker drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for 3rd through 5th grade. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers name one everyday example for three different energy types on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.