Power

Variables Affecting Solar Power

Grades:

7-8

Unit:

Lesson Number:

Description:

Students will plan and condict an investigation into solar photovoltaic technologies to determine what variables affect the output of panels. They will calculate and compare their exploration of solar panels to their previous investigation of wind turbines...

Energy Content:

Circuitry,

Electrical Energy,

Electricity Generation,

Solar Photovoltaic

More Details Less Details

Learning Goal(s):

• Students will be able to identify and explain at least three variables that effect the efficiency of photovoltaic cells • Students will conduct a scientific investigation to determine which photovoltaic cell configuration will generate the most power.

Pedagogy & Practice:

Engineering Design,

Group Work/Collaboration

NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:

3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,

4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data,

6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,

7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence,

8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information

Author:

Craig Marais

Relevant NGSS PE: