Design a 50 Year Energy Plan

50 Year Energy Plan - Unit Plan

Grades:
9-12
Unit:
50 Year Energy Plan
Description:

Throughout this creative, hands-on Unit, students are challenged to scale up every Disciplinary Core Idea and Science & Engineering Practice they’ve learned - from simple electricity generation, to building their own stereo speakers and DIY electric...

Energy Content:
Batteries & Storage,
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Electrical Grid (Transmission & Distribution),
Electricity and Magnetism,
Electricity Generation,
Electronics,
Electrons,
Light (Visible),
Solar Photovoltaic,
Sources of Energy,
Wind Energy
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More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
Explore causes and effects of climate change as related to energy production. Develop a working understanding of varying stakeholder perspectives on the causes and effects of climate change. Through hands-on exploration, build a working speaker that can connect to a cellphone. Use DIY speakers as a model to observe the process of producing electrical currents with a simple generator. Design, build and refine a wind turbine to efficiently convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. Design, build and refine a system that is the most effective at converting the sunlight into electrical energy. Students develop models to study the relationship between the Earth’s atmospheric composition and the Earth’s surface temperatures using simple diagrams. Students reflect on the impact of energy sources and power production on the environment. Students utilize their knowledge of how energy generation processes impacts the environment to inform how and why they develop a 50-year Energy Plan for their local community. 
Pedagogy & Practice:
Social-Emotional Learning,
Project-Based Learning,
Place-Based Learning,
Phenomena-Driven Instruction,
Hands-on Materials,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Engineering Design
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
2: Developing and Using Models,
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence
Author:
Bradford Hill
Relevant NGSS PE:
HS-ESS2-4,
HS-ESS3-1,
HS-ESS3-2,
HS-ETS1-1,
HS-ETS1-3,
HS-ETS1-4,
HS-PS2-5,
HS-PS3-3,
HS-PS3-5,
HS-PS4-3
Other Subjects Covered:
Computer Science,
ELA: Speaking & Listening,
ELA: Writing,
Math: Graphing & Representation,
Math: Measurement,
Social Sciences: Analysis,
Social Sciences: Civics,
Social Sciences: Geography,
Social Sciences: Multicultural Studies
Estimated Activity Length:
0 sec
Sphero SPRK+

Solar SPRK+ Unit Overview

Grades:
6-8
Unit:
Solar SPRK+
Description:

This unit incorporates basic programming knowledge and solar energy into an engineering design challenge using Sphero SPRK+ robots. The theme for this challenge centers on the idea of Mars rovers, and the challenges faced in space exploration, specifically...

Energy Content:
Batteries & Storage,
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Electronics,
Solar Photovoltaic
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More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
Students will develop tools to use in the Engineering Design Process.Students will learn drag and drop programming with Sphero Edu (formerly Lightning Lab).Students will determine how series and parallel circuits affect voltage and current.Students will understand how to use photovoltaic sources to charge a SPRK+.Students will design a chariot to carry a photovoltaic power source for a SPRK+.Students will learn to program a SPRK+ ball and chariot through a maze.
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
Engineering Design,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials,
Project-Based Learning,
Research-Secondary
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
2: Developing and Using Models,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Deb Frankel
Relevant NGSS PE:
MS-ETS1-1,
MS-ETS1-2,
MS-ETS1-3
Other Subjects Covered:
Computer Science,
ELA: Speaking & Listening,
ELA: Vocabulary Development
Estimated Activity Length:
10 hours
Arduino Angler Design

Illuminate Me: Merging Conductive Sewing, Technology, and Solar Power

Grades:
7-12
Unit:
Illuminate Me
Description:

Light up your clothing using solar power! For this unit, students will attach thin, flexible solar modules to a bike helmet and recharge NiMH rechargeable batteries for a renewable energy battery pack. The rechargeable batteries will be used to light up...

Energy Content:
Batteries & Storage,
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Electronics,
Solar Photovoltaic
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More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
1. Students will design and sew a wearable circuit using conductive thread. 2. Students will program a wearable microcontroller to light up garment with bright LEDs. 3. Students will incorporate solar power into a wearable garment project by recharging NiMH batteries for a renewable energy battery pack. 4. Students will apply knowledge of circuitry and energy transfer to maximize design.
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
Project-Based Learning,
Hands-on Materials,
Engineering Design
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
2: Developing and Using Models,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Kristy Schneider
Relevant NGSS PE:
MS-ETS1-1,
MS-PS1-3,
MS-PS3-5,
HS-ETS1-2,
HS-ETS1-3,
HS-ETS1-4
Other Subjects Covered:
Computer Science,
ELA: Speaking & Listening,
ELA: Vocabulary Development,
Math: Graphing & Representation,
Math: Measurement
Estimated Activity Length:
10 hours
Resource Type:
Data,
Energy Program/Initiative (Nonprofit/Industry),
Instructional Resource,
Interactive,
Report,
Research
Source:
US Department of Energy
Published:
2021
Last Updated:
2021
Intended Grade Level:
HS,
Post Secondary
Resource Link(s):
Report Broken Link
Description:

Published by US Department of Energy the Alternative Fuels Data Center is a wealth of data, maps, reports, interactives, case studies, and other resources on existing and emerging alternative fuel technologies, including electric vehicles, biodiesel, natural gas, hydrogen fuel cell, and others. Designed for fleet managers but applicable to high school classrooms, this can be a key research resource for understanding both the science and policy of alternative fuel transportation and applying to real world situations.

Location:
National
Energy Content:
Advanced Energy Careers,
Batteries & Storage,
Energy & Society,
Renewable Natural Gas,
Biomass Energy,
Fuels,
Hydrogen,
Smart Grid,
Sources of Energy,
Transportation
NGSS Disciplinary Core Idea:
ESS3.A: Natural Resources,
ESS3.C: Human Impact,
ESS3.D: Climate Change,
PS1.A: Matter: Structure & Properties,
PS1.B: Chemical Reactions,
PS3.D: Energy in Chemical Processes
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
Career-Connected Learning,
Engineering Design,
Multiple Learning Styles,
Project-Based Learning,
Research-Secondary,
Research-Primary
Other Subjects Covered:
Computer Science,
Environmental Sciences,
ELA: Informational Text,
Math: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division,
Math: Algebra,
Math: Functions,
Math: Graphing & Representation,
Math: Measurement,
Math: Statistics & Probability,
Math: Ratios & Proportions,
Math: Trigonometry/Calculus,
Social Sciences: Economics
Lead Acid Battery

Solar Battery Charging

Grades:
7-12
Unit:
Solar Battery Charging
Description:

Students will become familiar with circuits, cells, batteries, and photovoltaic cells, then plan, build, test, modify, and re-test a small solar battery charger designed to maintain batteries from a particular device.

Energy Content:
Batteries & Storage,
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Electricity Generation,
Solar Photovoltaic
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More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
Students will build series, parallel, and parallel series circuits from a schematic diagram. Students will master the basic concept of battery charging. Students will be able to plan and build solar battery chargers for a given battery system. Intermediate students will calculate time to charge a depleted battery to its full capacity given specifications of a solar module. Students will be able to explain how a solar cell works with diagrams and words. Students will use a digital multi-meter to measure voltage, current, resistance, and diode polarity.
Pedagogy & Practice:
Hands-on Materials,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Engineering Design
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
2: Developing and Using Models,
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Luke Robbins
Relevant NGSS PE:
MS-ETS1-1,
HS-ESS3-4,
HS-ETS1-2,
HS-PS3-3
Other Subjects Covered:
ELA: Vocabulary Development,
Math: Algebra,
Math: Measurement
Estimated Activity Length:
9 hours
Resource Type:
Instructional Resource,
Pedagogy
Source:
US Department of Energy
Published:
2017
Last Updated:
2021
Intended Grade Level:
PreK-2,
3-5,
MS,
HS,
OST,
Post Secondary
Resource Link(s):
Report Broken Link
Description:

Energy Literacy: Essential Principles and Fundamental Concepts for Energy Education is an interdisciplinary approach to teaching and learning about energy. The framework identifies seven Essential Principles and a set of Fundamental Concepts to support each principle. The guide does not seek to identify all areas of energy understanding, but rather to focus on those that are essential for all citizens K-Gray. It presents energy concepts that, if understood and applied, will help individuals and communities make informed energy decisions.

Location:
National
Energy Content:
Advanced Energy Careers,
Batteries & Storage,
Energy & Society,
Energy Equity and Justice,
Renewable Natural Gas,
Biomass Energy,
Circuitry,
Demand Response,
Electrical Energy,
Electrical Grid (Transmission & Distribution),
Electricity and Magnetism,
Electricity Generation,
Electronics,
Electrons,
Energy Efficiency,
Energy Fundamentals,
Fuels,
Geothermal Energy,
Hydrogen,
Hydropower,
Light (Visible),
Materials Science,
Microgrids,
Next Generation Manufacturing,
Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion,
Potential & Kinetic Energy,
Smart Grid,
Solar Photovoltaic,
Solar Thermal,
Sound,
Sources of Energy,
Thermal Energy (Heat),
Tidal Energy,
Transportation,
Wave Energy,
Wind Energy
NGSS Disciplinary Core Idea:
ESS1.B: Solar System,
ESS1.C: Earth History,
ESS2.A: Earth Materials & Systems,
ESS2.C: Water on Earth,
ESS2.D: Weather & Climate,
ESS3.A: Natural Resources,
ESS3.C: Human Impact,
ESS3.D: Climate Change,
LS2.B: Matter & Energy Cycles,
LS2.C: Ecosystem Dynamics,
LS4.D: Biodiversity & Humans,
PS1.A: Matter: Structure & Properties,
PS1.B: Chemical Reactions,
PS1.C: Nuclear Processes,
PS2.A: Forces & Motion,
PS2.B: Interactions Between Forces,
PS3.A: Energy Definitions,
PS3.B: Energy Conservation & Transfer,
PS3.C: Energy & Forces,
PS3.D: Energy in Chemical Processes,
PS4.A: Wave Properties,
PS4.B: Electromagnetic Radiation,
PS4.C: Information Technologies
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
Early Childhood Learning,
Establishing a Culture of Science
Other Subjects Covered:
Environmental Sciences,
Social Sciences: Analysis,
Social Sciences: Civics,
Social Sciences: Economics,
Social Sciences: Geography,
Social Sciences: History
Resource Type:
Instructional Resource,
Phenomena,
Video,
Visualization/Simulation
Source:
PBS Digital Studios
Published:
2021
Last Updated:
2021
Intended Grade Level:
3-5,
MS,
HS,
Post Secondary
Resource Link(s):
Report Broken Link
Description:

A series of dozens of videos on science and engineering concepts and applied issues, as well as dives into the history of science concepts and engineering breakthroughs. These videos are generally most useful at the high school level due to vocabulary and concepts, but many are accessible at middle and upper primary levels. These videos generally do not include critical analyses of the field and its impacts. The Crash Course Engineering series is one of dozens of Carash Course series by PBS Digital Media. 

Location:
National
Energy Content:
Advanced Energy Careers,
Batteries & Storage,
Energy & Society,
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Electrical Grid (Transmission & Distribution),
Electronics,
Electrons,
Energy Fundamentals,
Potential & Kinetic Energy,
Sources of Energy
NGSS Disciplinary Core Idea:
ESS2.A: Earth Materials & Systems,
ESS2.D: Weather & Climate,
ESS3.A: Natural Resources,
ESS3.C: Human Impact,
PS1.A: Matter: Structure & Properties,
PS1.B: Chemical Reactions,
PS1.C: Nuclear Processes,
PS2.A: Forces & Motion,
PS2.B: Interactions Between Forces,
PS3.A: Energy Definitions,
PS3.B: Energy Conservation & Transfer,
PS3.C: Energy & Forces,
PS3.D: Energy in Chemical Processes,
PS4.A: Wave Properties,
PS4.B: Electromagnetic Radiation,
PS4.C: Information Technologies
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
Career-Connected Learning,
Engineering Design,
Establishing a Culture of Science
Other Subjects Covered:
Computer Science,
CTE: Career & Technical Education
Resource Type:
At-Home,
Instructional Resource,
Video,
Visualization/Simulation
Source:
The Engineering Mindset
Published:
2021
Last Updated:
2021
Intended Grade Level:
MS,
HS,
Post Secondary
Resource Link(s):
Report Broken Link
Description:

The Engineering Mindset is a series of illustrated comprehensive tutorials on electricity concepts, energy and engineering concepts, from topics as simple as electricity basics to complicated real-world technological applcations, especially building systems. They are a great go to resource for explaining complicated concepts in relatively simple, well-illustrated videos.

Location:
National
Energy Content:
Batteries & Storage,
Energy & Society,
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Electrical Grid (Transmission & Distribution),
Electricity and Magnetism,
Electricity Generation,
Electronics,
Electrons,
Energy Fundamentals,
Materials Science,
Potential & Kinetic Energy
NGSS Disciplinary Core Idea:
PS1.A: Matter: Structure & Properties,
PS2.A: Forces & Motion,
PS2.B: Interactions Between Forces,
PS3.A: Energy Definitions,
PS3.B: Energy Conservation & Transfer,
PS3.C: Energy & Forces,
PS4.B: Electromagnetic Radiation
Pedagogy & Practice:
Career-Connected Learning,
Engineering Design
Other Subjects Covered:
CTE: Career & Technical Education
Resource Type:
Grants/Funding,
Mentorships,
Teacher Externship
Source:
Murdock Charitable Trust
Published:
2020
Last Updated:
2020
Intended Grade Level:
HS,
Post Secondary
Resource Link(s):
Report Broken Link
Description:

This unique program pairs high school science teachers with a mentor doing cutting-edge research in an academic lab or a lab associated with another nonprofit institution. The Murdock Trust awards approximately 25 Partners in Science grants each year to fund these teacher-mentor research opportunities in the Pacific Northwest. Our goal is to help teachers bring knowledge from the research lab directly into the classroom to promote hands-on science education. 

Location:
West/Pacific NW
Energy Content:
Advanced Energy Careers,
Batteries & Storage,
Energy & Society,
Energy Equity and Justice,
Renewable Natural Gas,
Biomass Energy,
Circuitry,
Electricity Generation,
Electronics,
Energy Efficiency,
Fuels,
Geothermal Energy,
Hydrogen,
Hydropower,
Light (Visible),
Materials Science,
Next Generation Manufacturing,
Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion,
Smart Grid,
Solar Photovoltaic,
Solar Thermal,
Sound,
Sources of Energy,
Thermal Energy (Heat),
Tidal Energy,
Transportation,
Wave Energy,
Wind Energy
Pedagogy & Practice:
Career-Connected Learning,
Establishing a Culture of Science,
Hands-on Materials,
Phenomena-Driven Instruction,
Place-Based Learning,
Project-Based Learning,
Research-Primary
Other Subjects Covered:
CTE: Career & Technical Education
Resource Type:
Video
Source:
Practical Engineering
Published:
2019
Last Updated:
2020
Intended Grade Level:
HS,
Post Secondary
Resource Link(s):
Report Broken Link
Description:

A great in-depth 101 on the electrical grid (10:24 runtime, includes and ad for the creator's sponsorship) which covers many of the basics of the purpose and issues in the electrical grid.

Location:
National
Energy Content:
Batteries & Storage,
Electrical Grid (Transmission & Distribution),
Electricity Generation,
Smart Grid
NGSS Disciplinary Core Idea:
ESS3.A: Natural Resources,
ESS3.C: Human Impact
Pedagogy & Practice:
Engineering Design

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