Students investigate the sources of energy and options available for human use. Through historical exploration and creative problem solving, students begin to develop responsible attitudes about energy conservation. Activities Students brainstorm all the ways energy is used in the home, in school, and in the community, identify the sources of the energy, and classify them as renewable or nonrenewable. Students investigate how much electrical energy the appliances in their homes use in a year. The teacher generates a standard list for students to check.
Students draw a chart like the one below to calculate estimated energy use in a given year.
They share and discuss results. They present their information to the rest of the class as a written report, oral presentation, chart, or poster. They demonstrate their scientific skills and processes when they work together to research and analyze energy options. Skills and processes To assess the group research reports, the teacher and students develop criteria. Knowledge Through written reports or oral presentations, students demonstrate their understanding of the energy options available in their community and the problems associated with their use.