What happens when the lever rests on a smaller fulcrum? Is the balance is more sensitive?
2. Compare the mass of various objects as in the Spring Scales activity, only using the balance instead. 3. Use commercially made balances. 4. Use coins, blocks, washers, etc. as units of measure. Compare the mass of different objects by comparing the number of washers necessary to balance the objects. Make a chart listing each object and how many washers were necessary to tip the balance. Students can report their findings by saying, “This object has a mass greater than _x_ washers but less than _y_ washers.” 5. Use a see-saw or other large set-up to do a group demonstration comparing mass of larger objects, including students themselves. 6. Using a finger as a fulcrum compare the balance point of objects with odd shapes to those which are symmetrical.
