Teacher’s Page

Introduction:

There are many alternative sources of energy that can be used in place of natural resources for our energy needs. It is important we know about these alternative sources of energy and how we can conserve energy for the good of the environment.

Aim:

Students will learn about the different types of alternative energy and their benefits.

Rationale:

In today’s society, we rely heavily on natural resources for a form of energy. However, most of the natural resources we rely on are non-renewable. This includes coal, fossil fuels, natural gas, and petroleum. These natural resources will not last forever and many people do not take the time to understand the importance of energy conversation. Too many people are wasting these precious natural resources when they could be using an alternative source of energy.

Goals and objectives:

Students will understand the importance of energy conversation. They will also be able to identify multiple alternative energy sources and how they are used in certain situations involving energy.

Standards:

NETS 2.A; 2.B; 2.C; 3.A; 3.B; 4.B; 5.A; 5.B; 6.A; 6.B

Audience and Pre-requisite:

The audience that this lesson is designed for is high school students, freshman through seniors. The only pre-requisite that is needed is that the students need to have a basic understanding of energy and its importance. The students will have to describe everyday situations where natural resources are used and its importance to our society.

Description of Subject-Matter:

Students will inquire about the different types of alternative energy. These include hydroelectric, wind, nuclear, and any others they may come across. They will decide which alternative energy would be best for the Chicagoland area. There is no right answer; however, they must justify their decision. They will research this alternative energy’s past, economical facts, effects, and any other relevant information. This lesson includes the subject of science, English, language arts, and technology.

Instructional plan:

The students will first be introduced to the problem of the depletion of natural resources. They will then be put into groups and begin researching the facts of alternative energy. At this time, the group members will be given different roles and they will research different things. The research will be done with the Internet, books, magazines, and journals. They will research things that have to do with environmental effects, its cost, and how it has it has done in different scenarios. They will then give a report that they will be assessed on.

Materials:

Materials include the Internet, books, magazines, journals, poster board, Microsoft PowerPoint, markers, Microsoft Excel, and worksheets provided by the teacher with some alternative energy facts. The classroom does not be setup in any particular order.

Plans for Assessment and Evaluation:

Students will give an 8 to 10 minute oral presentation based on their research findings. It should include details ranging from price, effects, past results, and future importance. Students will also be urged to create visual aids for their presentation, which includes but not limited to poster boards, handouts, pictures, and PowerPoint presentations. Students may also create a model demonstrating alternative energy sources. The students will also write a 4 to 5 page term paper describing their findings. Teacher and fellow classmates will grade project using teacher made rubrics.

Introduction Task Process Conclusion Evaluation Resources Teachers