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Understanding Energy

Two students use a multimeter to measure energy created by a wire wrapped cardboard tube being moved by the student on the right.
Learning Goals

Learning Goals:

  1. Students will be able to identify the 5 different types of energy.
  2. Students will be able to identify at least 3 nonrenewable sources of energy.
  3. Students will be able to identify at least 3 renewable sources of energy.
  4. Students will learn how energy is created through a hands-on activity.
  5. Students will understand the effects of continued consumption of nonrenewable energy sources by participating in a hands-on activity.
Materials List

Handouts

Group Supplies (2-3 per group)

  • Quart-sized bag
  • 92 Beans of one color
  • 8 Beans of a different color
  • Blindfold
  • 100 cm Bare copper wire
  • 1-2 Powerful bar magnets
  • Toilet paper roll
  • Duct tape
  • Multimeter

Important Links

Time: 45 mins

The United States has joined the rest of the world in committing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by half
to achieve “net zero” carbon emissions in order to try to keep global warming to 1.5 °C. To achieve this will
require substantial changes to our energy grid, as well as a STEM workforce that will lead innovation in the
development of renewable technologies. For our students to understand and engage in this energy
revolution, they must have the opportunity to understand how energy and power impact their own
community, and what it means to the Coeur d’Alene Reservation to take part in 21st century power
development.

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