Keeping it Cool With Solar: Design Time

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Intended Grade Level(s):
K-2
Energy Content:
Energy Efficiency,
Energy Fundamentals,
Light (Visible),
Solar Thermal,
Sources of Energy
Learning Goal(s):

1. Students design structures that will optimize cooling the earth’s surface from sunlight.

Unit:
Keeping it Cool With Solar
Lesson Number:
3
Pedagogy & Practice:
Early Childhood Learning,
Engineering Design,
Establishing a Culture of Science
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
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
Relevant NGSS PE:
K-PS3-1
Other Subjects Covered:
ELA: Speaking & Listening,
ELA: Vocabulary Development
Estimated Activity Length:
30 min
Files Associated with this Activity:
PDF icon Keeping it Cool With Solar Lesson 3.pdf
PDF icon Lesson 3 - Engineering Design Worksheet.pdf
Description:

This lesson is designed for one 30-minute session. Students are shown materials. Students are asked “How might we design a structure that will keep the ground the coolest?” Students design their structures by discussing, collaborating, and drawing. Students share their designs.

Science Kit Material(s) Used:
1.5-Volt 500mA Solar Module
Other Material(s) Used:
Construction materials listed in lesson plan