This Concept Introduction / Review Activity directly supports NGSS Standard MS.PS3.2: Develop a model to describe that when the arrangement of objects interacting at a distance changes, different amounts of potential energy are stored in the system. The purpose of this 45 minute, 5E investigation is to understand how changes in the arrangement of objects interacting at a distance affect the amount of potential energy stored in a system and to connect this concept to real-world scenarios, such as gravitational and elastic systems. In this lesson, students will explore the concept of potential energy in systems by reading and analyzing passages about gravitational and elastic potential energy. They will answer questions to deepen their understanding of how objects' arrangements influence the energy stored within a system. Through this exploration, students will also make connections between theoretical concepts and real-world examples, enhancing their ability to recognize potential energy in everyday situations. Varied instructional grouping and activities can be applied to this foundational concept introduction and review activity, allowing students to engage with the material in different collaborative and independent formats. This package includes a lesson plan, instructor activity guide, students activity guide, response worksheet, answer key, and digital response worksheet. Just print, prep, and it’s ready to go.