Part 2 - Lesson 1: Renewable Energy Panel

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Intended Grade Level(s):
6-12
Energy Content:
Electrical Energy,
Electrical Grid (Transmission & Distribution),
Electricity Generation,
Microgrids,
Solar Photovoltaic,
Sources of Energy,
Wind Energy
Learning Goal(s):

1.Students will gain background information regarding the limitations of having and wind and solar generating infrastructure within city and county limits, including environmental, aesthetic, and cultural considerations. 

2.Students will compile criteria for placement of wind and solar energy sources.

Unit:
A Community Powered by Renewable Energy
Lesson Number:
4
Pedagogy & Practice:
21st Century Skills Development,
Empathetic Engineering,
Engineering Design,
Establishing a Culture of Science,
Multiple Learning Styles,
Phenomena-Driven Instruction,
Place-Based Learning,
Project-Based Learning,
Research-Primary
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
1: Asking Questions and Defining Problems,
3: Planning and Carrying Out Investigations,
8: Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Relevant NGSS PE:
HS-ESS3-2
Other Subjects Covered:
Environmental Sciences,
CTE: Career & Technical Education,
Social Sciences: Analysis,
Social Sciences: Civics,
Social Sciences: Geography
Estimated Activity Length:
1 hour 40 min
Relevant Common Core Standard(s):
6-8.WHST.7
Files Associated with this Activity:
Microsoft Office document icon P2_L1_Community Powered By Renewable Energy.doc
File P2-L1_Sample Questions for Panelist.docx
Description:

Students will meet with local planners or other available energy experts to discuss public policy regarding the use of wind turbines and solar arrays to generate electricity. Students develop questions for a panel of professionals regarding considerations such as wildlife migration patterns, visual corridors, archeology sites, drainage, and vegetation. Questions may include the following: How is locally generated renewable energy utilized in conjunction with energy sources transmitted through the grid? What, if any, are the limitations regarding the installation of solar panels on residential properties? Commercial properties? Public properties? and What, if any, are the limitations of installation and use of wind turbines within city limits and on county properties?

Students will gain background information regarding the limitations of having and wind and solar generating infrastructure within city and county limits.