Unit Plan: Understand E-Waste Through Battery Design

Grades:
4-5
Unit:
Understanding E-Waste Through Battery Design
Description:

In this lesson students will further explore their understanding of energy, electricity, and basic circuits. Students will begin their exploration of batteries by questioning where batteries end up when we are done using them, making connections to e-waste...

Energy Content:
Batteries & Storage,
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Electricity Generation,
Electronics,
Electrons,
Fuels,
Hydrogen,
Potential & Kinetic Energy,
Solar Photovoltaic,
Sources of Energy,
Wind Energy
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More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
1.Students will make connections to real world problem solving with e-waste.2.Students will explore battery design and transfer of energy through hands on experiments with household items.3.Students will evaluate and analyze problems with e-waste and research solutions.4.Students will draw and label models to explain circuits demonstrating the movement of energy.5.Students will be able to explain how the measured and compared batteries based on the knowledge learned about volts and using a voltmeter.
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
English Language Strategies,
Engineering Design,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials,
Phenomena-Driven Instruction,
Research-Secondary
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
2: Developing and Using Models,
4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Jonathan Strunin
Relevant NGSS PE:
4-PS3-2,
4-PS3-4,
4-ESS3-1,
5-ESS3-1,
3-5-ETS1-1,
3-5-ETS1-2,
3-5-ETS1-3
Other Subjects Covered:
Environmental Sciences,
ELA: Informational Text,
ELA: Reading: Scientific & Technical,
ELA: Vocabulary Development,
Math: Graphing & Representation,
Math: Measurement,
Social Sciences: Analysis
Estimated Activity Length:
10 hours

Adrift in a Sea of Plastic Unit Plan

Grades:
5-8
Unit:
Adrift in a Sea of Plastic
Description:

In this unit students will investigate the phenomena of plastic trash islands floating in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. The students will work to solve the problem of plastic trash islands through the engineering and design process. Using 3D printers,...

Energy Content:
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Materials Science,
Next Generation Manufacturing,
Solar Photovoltaic
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More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
·       Students will design 3D models using Tinkercad software.·       Students will define the problem of plastic trash islands.·       Students will describe possible solutions to the problem of plastic trash islands.·       Students will research the plastic trash problem and create google slideshows the problem and how we might fix it.·       Students will investigate different ways to build structures that both float and hold weight.·       Students will build a model of a device that could collect plastic from the ocean.·       Students will test the models they build.·       Students will communicate their results from scientific inquiry to identify factors that are important to optimizing the design of the plastic collecting device.
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
Culturally Sustaining,
English Language Strategies,
Engineering Design,
Establishing a Culture of Science,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials,
Phenomena-Driven Instruction,
Project-Based Learning,
Research-Secondary,
STEAM/Arts
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
2: Developing and Using Models,
4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Jonathan Strunin
Relevant NGSS PE:
5-ESS3-1,
3-5-ETS1-1,
3-5-ETS1-2,
3-5-ETS1-3,
MS-ESS3-3,
MS-ETS1-1,
MS-ETS1-2,
MS-ETS1-3
Other Subjects Covered:
Computer Science,
Environmental Sciences,
ELA: Informational Text,
ELA: Speaking & Listening,
ELA: Writing,
Math: Geometry,
Math: Graphing & Representation
Estimated Activity Length:
10 hours
Arduino Angler Design

Illuminate Me: Merging Conductive Sewing, Technology, and Solar Power

Grades:
7-12
Unit:
Illuminate Me
Description:

Light up your clothing using solar power! For this unit, students will attach thin, flexible solar modules to a bike helmet and recharge NiMH rechargeable batteries for a renewable energy battery pack. The rechargeable batteries will be used to light up...

Energy Content:
Batteries & Storage,
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Electronics,
Solar Photovoltaic
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More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
1. Students will design and sew a wearable circuit using conductive thread. 2. Students will program a wearable microcontroller to light up garment with bright LEDs. 3. Students will incorporate solar power into a wearable garment project by recharging NiMH batteries for a renewable energy battery pack. 4. Students will apply knowledge of circuitry and energy transfer to maximize design.
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
Project-Based Learning,
Hands-on Materials,
Engineering Design
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
2: Developing and Using Models,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Kristy Schneider
Relevant NGSS PE:
MS-ETS1-1,
MS-PS1-3,
MS-PS3-5,
HS-ETS1-2,
HS-ETS1-3,
HS-ETS1-4
Other Subjects Covered:
Computer Science,
ELA: Speaking & Listening,
ELA: Vocabulary Development,
Math: Graphing & Representation,
Math: Measurement
Estimated Activity Length:
10 hours

Keeping it Cool With Solar Unit Plan

Grades:
K-2
Unit:
Keeping it Cool With Solar
Description:

Keeping It Cool With Solar unit asks the question: “How might we design a structure that will keep us cool on a hot day?” As an anchoring phenomenon, students will be shown a time-lapse video of an ice cube melting, and a second phenomenon of a solar...

Energy Content:
Energy Efficiency,
Energy Fundamentals,
Light (Visible),
Solar Thermal
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More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
Students will make observations to determine the effect of sunlight on Earth’s surface. Students will plan and conduct investigations to determine whether structures made with various materials will keep objects cool when placed in a beam of light. Students will analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem in order to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs. Students will analyze data obtained from testing different materials to determine which materials have the properties that are best suited for keeping an object cool. Students will test if solar panels and solar energy can help cool down their structure.
Pedagogy & Practice:
Early Childhood Learning,
Engineering Design,
Establishing a Culture of Science,
Hands-on Materials,
Phenomena-Driven Instruction
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
2: Developing and Using Models,
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Mark Lewin
Relevant NGSS PE:
K-PS3-1
Other Subjects Covered:
ELA: Speaking & Listening
Estimated Activity Length:
4 hours
Solar Mini House

Mini Solar Houses Unit

Grades:
4-6
Unit:
Mini Solar Houses
Description:

In Lesson 1, the lesson focuses on understanding how the angle and orientation affect the amount of energy that is generated through use of a solar cell. Paper azimuth finders, Keva Planks, and multimeters will be used in order for students to draw...

Energy Content:
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Solar Photovoltaic
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More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
1. Students will understand how to use an Azimuth finder to determine the direction and altitude that solar modules will face. 2. Students will learn how to describe why a solar module is pitched at a particular angle. 3. Students will understand how to measure the voltage and current for an electrical energy source. 4. Students will learn how to build a circuit that will light a light bulb with a switch and without a switch. 5. Students will understand that the electricity flows through a circuit from an energy source to a load. 6. Students will understand the difference between open and closed circuits. 7. Students will understand the similarities and differences between solar cells and batteries as an energy source. 8. Students will understand how electricity flows through a circuit (from energy sources to loads) with more than one source and more than one load. 9. Students will understand how to build series and parallel circuit and the characteristics of each. 10. Students will learn to power both a light and a fan. 11. Students will learn how to find a fault in a circuit. 12. Students will understand that the electricity flows through a circuit from an energy source to a load. 13. Students will understand the difference between open and closed circuits. 14. Students will identify the causes and solutions to various complications that arise in the construction of circuits. 15. Students will use the design process to create a roof to hold an adequate number of solar modules to power an LED and a fan. 16. Students will understand how to make a geometric net (a 2D drawing that when folded creates a 3D shape) for designing a roof.
Pedagogy & Practice:
Engineering Design,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
2: Developing and Using Models,
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Beverly Satterwhite
Relevant NGSS PE:
4-PS3-2,
4-PS3-4,
3-5-ETS1-1,
3-5-ETS1-2,
3-5-ETS1-3
Other Subjects Covered:
ELA: Writing,
ELA: Vocabulary Development,
Math: Measurement
Estimated Activity Length:
8 hours

Cost Effective Solar Cells Unit Plan

Grades:
9-12
Unit:
Cost Effective Solar Cells
Description:

Through a series of solar panel and solar cell construction activities, students will learn the basic principles of energy conversion from light energy to chemical & electrical energy. Students will assemble and test pre-constructed solar panels to...

Energy Content:
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Electricity and Magnetism,
Electronics,
Light (Visible),
Solar Photovoltaic
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More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
Students will discuss social, cultural, and economic implications of sustainable solar energy.Students will construct and test solar panel arrays to power LED lights, fan motors, and music playersStudents will review circuitry basics and solar cell layersStudents will analyze and share out power generation results with classmatesStudents will construct and test an oxidized copper sheet solar cellStudents will share and analyze oxidized copper sheet solar cell dataStudents will construct and test titanium dioxide coated “raspberry juice” solar cellsStudents will collect and analyze titanium dioxide coated “raspberry juice” solar cell data.Students will discuss results and draw conclusions about variables that may affect power generationStudents will visit a solar cell or silicon manufacturing facility and/or engage with guest speakers. Students will learn more detailed solar cell principles and manufacturing techniques involved in solar cell constructionStudents will research chemicals, materials and procedures for their own solar cell designsStudents will build and present models of their proposed solar cellsStudents will construct and test unique solar cellsStudents will present construction progress and project obstaclesStudents will format solar cell data, draw conclusions, and construct an engineering report as a research poster
Pedagogy & Practice:
Engineering Design,
Hands-on Materials,
Multiple Learning Styles,
Project-Based Learning,
Research-Secondary
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
2: Developing and Using Models,
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Tom Wolverton
Relevant NGSS PE:
HS-ETS1-1,
HS-ETS1-2,
HS-ETS1-3,
HS-ETS1-4,
HS-PS1-2,
HS-PS2-6,
HS-PS3-3
Other Subjects Covered:
Environmental Sciences,
ELA: Reading: Scientific & Technical
Estimated Activity Length:
10 hours
Lead Acid Battery

Solar Battery Charging

Grades:
7-12
Unit:
Solar Battery Charging
Description:

Students will become familiar with circuits, cells, batteries, and photovoltaic cells, then plan, build, test, modify, and re-test a small solar battery charger designed to maintain batteries from a particular device.

Energy Content:
Batteries & Storage,
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Electricity Generation,
Solar Photovoltaic
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More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
Students will build series, parallel, and parallel series circuits from a schematic diagram. Students will master the basic concept of battery charging. Students will be able to plan and build solar battery chargers for a given battery system. Intermediate students will calculate time to charge a depleted battery to its full capacity given specifications of a solar module. Students will be able to explain how a solar cell works with diagrams and words. Students will use a digital multi-meter to measure voltage, current, resistance, and diode polarity.
Pedagogy & Practice:
Hands-on Materials,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Engineering Design
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
2: Developing and Using Models,
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Luke Robbins
Relevant NGSS PE:
MS-ETS1-1,
HS-ESS3-4,
HS-ETS1-2,
HS-PS3-3
Other Subjects Covered:
ELA: Vocabulary Development,
Math: Algebra,
Math: Measurement
Estimated Activity Length:
9 hours
Solar Mobile

Solar Mobile Design Challenge Unit Plan

Grades:
6-8
Unit:
Solar Mobile Design Challenge
Description:

This unit involves students learning about transferring solar energy to small motors, exploring the center of gravity and testing light sources (including the sun). The culminating engineering design project gives students the chance to pull...

Energy Content:
Circuitry,
Electricity and Magnetism,
Energy Efficiency,
Materials Science,
Solar Photovoltaic
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More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
Students will design circuits using various solar panels in order to power motors with propellers. Students will learn about solar energy transfer in order to power the motors on their solar aircraft.Students will research an aircraft and draw an outline of the aircraft onto foam board. Students will explore the concept of center of gravity. Students will test the efficiency of various light sources (incandescent, fluorescent, LED, halogen) for usage by a PV cell.Students will use their prior testing results and knowledge to engineer a solar-powered mobile. Students will work to transfer the most energy from the solar panels considering all the tested variables in order to power the fastest, most efficient mobile.Students will demonstrate and explain why their solar mobile should be chosen for the solar mobile display in the children’s museum. 
Pedagogy & Practice:
Engineering Design,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Hands-on Materials,
Phenomena-Driven Instruction,
Project-Based Learning,
STEAM/Arts
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
2: Developing and Using Models,
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Author:
Kristy Schneider
Relevant NGSS PE:
MS-ETS1-3,
MS-ETS1-4,
MS-PS2-2,
MS-PS3-5
Other Subjects Covered:
ELA: Informational Text,
Math: Measurement
Estimated Activity Length:
0 sec
Design a 50 Year Energy Plan

50 Year Energy Plan - Unit Plan

Grades:
9-12
Unit:
50 Year Energy Plan
Description:

Throughout this creative, hands-on Unit, students are challenged to scale up every Disciplinary Core Idea and Science & Engineering Practice they’ve learned - from simple electricity generation, to building their own stereo speakers and DIY electric...

Energy Content:
Batteries & Storage,
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Electrical Grid (Transmission & Distribution),
Electricity and Magnetism,
Electricity Generation,
Electronics,
Electrons,
Light (Visible),
Solar Photovoltaic,
Sources of Energy,
Wind Energy
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More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
Explore causes and effects of climate change as related to energy production. Develop a working understanding of varying stakeholder perspectives on the causes and effects of climate change. Through hands-on exploration, build a working speaker that can connect to a cellphone. Use DIY speakers as a model to observe the process of producing electrical currents with a simple generator. Design, build and refine a wind turbine to efficiently convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. Design, build and refine a system that is the most effective at converting the sunlight into electrical energy. Students develop models to study the relationship between the Earth’s atmospheric composition and the Earth’s surface temperatures using simple diagrams. Students reflect on the impact of energy sources and power production on the environment. Students utilize their knowledge of how energy generation processes impacts the environment to inform how and why they develop a 50-year Energy Plan for their local community. 
Pedagogy & Practice:
Social-Emotional Learning,
Project-Based Learning,
Place-Based Learning,
Phenomena-Driven Instruction,
Hands-on Materials,
Group Work/Collaboration,
Engineering Design
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
2: Developing and Using Models,
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
4: Analyzing and Interpreting Data,
5: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence
Author:
Bradford Hill
Relevant NGSS PE:
HS-ESS2-4,
HS-ESS3-1,
HS-ESS3-2,
HS-ETS1-1,
HS-ETS1-3,
HS-ETS1-4,
HS-PS2-5,
HS-PS3-3,
HS-PS3-5,
HS-PS4-3
Other Subjects Covered:
Computer Science,
ELA: Speaking & Listening,
ELA: Writing,
Math: Graphing & Representation,
Math: Measurement,
Social Sciences: Analysis,
Social Sciences: Civics,
Social Sciences: Geography,
Social Sciences: Multicultural Studies
Estimated Activity Length:
0 sec
2-wheel-driveSolarCar_IMG_4600.jpg

Solar Car Challenge: Introduction of the Problem

Grades:
6-8
Unit:
Solar Car Challenge
Lesson Number:
1
Description:

Students will play around with the solar car kits to familiarize themselves with the materials in preparation for the solar car engineering challenge.

Energy Content:
Solar Photovoltaic
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More Details Less Details
Learning Goal(s):
To introduce students to the problem that this project will attempt to solve: building a solar car that will go straight, far, and fast to win a race.
Pedagogy & Practice:
Engineering Design,
Hands-on Materials
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions
Author:
Karen Nelson
Relevant NGSS PE:
MS-ESS3-3,
MS-ETS1-1,
MS-ETS1-2
Estimated Activity Length:
2 hours

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