Alternative Energy Sources
Materials:
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Alternative Energy Resource Cards
Computers or Resource Books
Students will work as a group to become experts in one type of alternative
energy (solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal or biofuel). They will present
their findings to the class and take notes about the other energy resources.
Finally, they will write a persuasive essay about the "best" energy source.
Create a scenario for the activity. Due to a rapid increase in population and
energy use, their town is looking for additional energy resources. Polls show
the citizens want to reduce their use of fossil fuels and take advantage of
tax incentives to use "green" energy resources. The town leaders have
decided to hold a competition to choose a new alternative energy system for
town. They are asking highly respected energy experts to present
information that will help the town make the selection.
First, have the students brainstorm the various ways they use energy and
the sources for each type. Then, explain the scenario and ask the students
to discuss the kinds of information the town leaders and citizens will need to
help them make the best choice.
Next, divide the students into five groups and assign each group one of the
alternative energy types (solar, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal or biofuels).
Have the students use the Energy Resource Information Cards and any
other resources you may provide to learn about their assigned energy type.
Have each group prepare and deliver a presentation that includes an opening
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statement, advantages and disadvantages of the resource, and a closing
statement. During presentations, the students take notes about their
classmates' energy resource topics. Finally, the class votes on the best
energy system for their town. Each student also writes a persuasive
paragraph explaining reasons for the choice.
As an option, you might ask the campus administrators or another class to
participate as the town leaders who will select the best energy system. You
might also invite community leaders or energy industry representatives to
participate or offer additional information or insights.
Additional information can be found at these resources: www.need.org,
http://tonto.eai.doe.gov/kids/index.cfm, www.energyquest.ca.gov
Discussion Questions:
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Where do we get the energy we use every day?
We get energy from a variety of natural sources, including the sun, moving
water, wind, heat from deep within the Earth, and fossil fuels. Students
might also list other sources such as nuclear energy from uranium and
batteries containing chemicals. Most of the electrical energy we use is
generated at power plants.
What energy sources are considered alternative?
Solar, wind, geothermal, biomass and hydroelectric.
Why are people interested in alternative energy sources?
People want to reduce our need for fossil fuels because getting fossil fuels
is sometimes difficult. Alternative energy sources usually create less
pollution and other harmful environmental biproducts.
Which alternative energy source is the best? Why do you think so?
Answers will vary.
Alternative Energy Sources
Student Directions
All About Alternative Energy