Alternative Energy

Standards:
CC.6-8.R.ST.3 Follow precisely a multistep procedure when carrying out experiments, taking measurements, or performing technical tasks.

CC.6-8.R.ST.7 Integrate quantitative or technical information expressed in words in a text with a version of that information expressed visually (e.g., in a flowchart, diagram, model, graph, or table)

ESS3.A:1 Humans depend on Earth's land, ocean, atmosphere, and biosphere for many different resources. Minerals, fresh water, and biosphere resources are limited, and many are not renewable or replaceable over human lifetimes. These resources are distributed unevenly around the planet as a result of past geologic processes. (MS-ESS3-1)

Key Vocabulary:
Renewable resource, turbine vs. windmill, voltage, generator

Essential Questions:
1. What are the differences, similarities and benefits of the various types of energy?
2. How efficient are alternative forms of energy?
3. What are the environment effects of using non-renewable and renewable resources?

Objectives:
Students who demonstrate understanding will be able to:
1. define “renewable energy”
2. demonstrate how electricity can be produced
3. analyze data to show the relationship between wind speed and voltage

Introduction:
Students will watch a short video about “wind business.” (1:45)

Activities:
1. Experiment using a wind powered generator
2. Record data observed on table-voltage at different distances
3. Hands-on test of using the jumpers and turbine to power a mini-motor and propeller

Assessments:
1. Classroom observation
2. Completion of data table

Materials:
1. Data table worksheet
2. Desk fan
3. Wind turbine
4. Meter stick
5. Multimeter
6. Banana jumpers
7. Mini motor and propeller