06+Renewable+Energy

This week we will explore several types of renewable energy sources. For each technology we will consider the problems and benefits associated to the complexity of providing the world with this type of new energy. Students will use the engineering design process to create a model of a ride for an amusement park that is powered by a solar cell.
 * How can new energy be generated to meet human needs sustainably? **


 * Option A: Solar Amusement Park Rides **


 * Relevant standard examples to share with your students: NGSS Engineering Design Standards:**
 * 1) K-2.ETS1-2. Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem.
 * 2) 3-5-ETS1-1. Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.
 * 3) 3-5-ETS1-2. Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.
 * 4) 3-5-ETS1-3. Plan and carry out fair tests in which variables are controlled and failure points are considered.

Note: We recently moved futures thinking to this week. Take time at the beginning of class to discuss futures thinking and connect it to the topic of renewable energy. [|Lesson Plan: Solar Energy Amusement Park Activity]
 * Instructor resources for class: **

Fact Sheet: New Energy

[|Solar Amusement Park Ride Planning Sheet] print one per pair of students
 * Handouts for class (printing required): **

see list of materials on the lesson plan
 * Supplies for class: **


 * Option B: New Energy Visions **


 * Relevant standard example to share with your students:** Grade 4. ELA. 4.W.7. (page 21) - Conduct short research projects that build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic.

Increasing student engagement during class discussions is a challenge that all teachers face. One of the best ways to make sure that all students are engaged in class discussions is to set up a structure for answering questions at the beginning of the class period. Making sure that all students are responsible for answering questions, calling on students randomly, and giving students specific responsibilities during discussions will help to ensure that all students are active participants in their learning.
 * Classroom Management Tip: //Questioning Strategies//**

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Lesson Plan: New Energy Visions
 * Instructor resources for class: **

None
 * Handouts for class (printing required): **

Computer/projector White board markers
 * Supplies for class: **