Solar Panel Construction, Orientation and Use Unit
Intended Grade Level(s):
9-12
Learning Goal(s):
Modeling and data analysis
Pedagogy & Practice:
NGSS Science and Engineering Practices:
Other Subjects Covered:
Estimated Activity Length:
10 hours 40 min
Relevant Common Core Standard(s):
Files Associated with this Activity:
Description:
For this extended task, students will track the sun's altitude and Azimuth to determine the best position for their hand-built solar panel, learn solar cell operation basics, solar panel construction, series and parallel circuitry and basic array sizing.
Science Kit Material(s) Used:
Multimeter
Solar Car
Other Material(s) Used:
PV Cells • Calibrated Solar Cell • Tab Ribbon & Bus Ribbon • Aluminum Bar-Stock (May substitute Fir wood stock for cost reduction) • Aluminum Sheet (May substitute door-skin or fiberboard for cost reduction) • Polycarbonate
