Cost Effective Solar Cells: Copper Oxide Cell Data Sharing

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Intended Grade Level(s):
9-12
Energy Content:
Circuitry,
Electrical Energy,
Electricity and Magnetism,
Electricity Generation,
Electrons,
Energy Fundamentals,
Solar Photovoltaic,
Sources of Energy
Learning Goal(s):
  1. Students will share and analyze oxidized copper sheet solar cell data
Unit:
Cost Effective Solar Cells
Lesson Number:
6
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
English Language Strategies,
Engineering Design,
Establishing a Culture of Science
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions,
7: Engaging in Argument from Evidence,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Relevant NGSS PE:
HS-PS1-2,
HS-PS2-6,
HS-PS3-3
Other Subjects Covered:
ELA: Speaking & Listening
Estimated Activity Length:
1 hour
Files Associated with this Activity:
PDF icon Wolverton Lesson Plan #6 2018-2019.pdf
Description:

This lesson is designed to be completed in one 40-minute section. The teacher will facilitate the sharing of student solar cell data from indoor and outdoor testing through a gallery walk session. Variables such as lighting, photovoltaic effect, copper properties, salt water, and circuits should be discussed. Teachers will guide students in making connections to solar cell power generation limits, basic circuitry, and batteries. Teachers should understand the differences between a renewable solar cell and the copper sheet experiment, which is photo-reactive but more similar to a battery than a solar panel. Teachers should facilitate discussion leading toward the most efficient copper solar cells based on environmental conditions. Understanding of the optimal conditions and the roles of each component of the solar cell are emphasized.