To investigate the relationship between context and concept we have constructed a conceptual learning path in which students reinvent the concept of energy conservation and embedded this path in two authentic practices. A comparison of the expected learning outcome with actual student output for the most important steps in the learning path gives us a detailed insight in how the teaching-learning sequence functions. The analysis identified several characteristics of authentic practices that enhance the learning process and showed that every step in this innovative approach is possible for students to take. In addition to learning the concept of energy conservation, embedding the learning process in authentic practices gives rise to a development of students' technological design and scientific skills.