Curated OER
Where in the World is Carbon Dixoide?
Students conduct experiments designed to detect the presence of CO2 by using a BTB that changes color (blue to yellow) in the presence of CO2. First, students experiment with the CO2 from combining vinegar and baking soda. In part two,...
Curated OER
People Changing the Atmosphere Lab
Young scholars examine ways to reduce the greenhouse effect. Students keep a "CO2 Journal" to help establish a connection between their own behavior and its impact on global warming as well as discover ways to reduce global warming.
Teach Engineering
Solar Water: Heat it Up!
Young engineers are instructed to design and build their own solar water heaters. Then, they calculate the efficiency and cost and compare them to commercially available models. This is a full unit for pupils to apply their knowledge.
Curated OER
The Chemistry of Refining Crude Oil
Consider our energy sources: wood, coal, oil, uranium. Learners compare the pollution to energy produced for each. They practice fractional distillation of an alcohol/water mixture to simulate the process of refining crude oil....
Teach Engineering
Efficiency of a Water Heating System
Tired of waiting for hot water? Groups of three determine the efficiency of an electric water-heating device. They calculate the amount of energy it takes to heat the water and the theoretical amount of energy required to heat the water....
Curated OER
WATTS UP?
Second graders research the Internet as they classify different forms of energy, investigate electrical energy and how to conserve energy.
Curated OER
Primary Energy Sources Pros and Cons
Students explore the different types of renewable and nonrenewable energy sources. For this earth science lesson, students discuss the pros and cons of each type. They conduct a variety of experiments on renewable energy.
Curated OER
Energy Adventure Scavenger Hunt
Students complete a scavenger hunt. In this energy lesson, students use various Internet websites to explore forms of energy, non-renewable sources, renewable sources, electricity, uses of energy and energy efficiency.
Curated OER
Middle School Home Energy Audit
Seventh graders research the origins of local electrical power and compare costs and methods of generation with other areas of the country or world.
Annenberg Foundation
Annenberg Learner: The Habitable Planet: Carbon Lab
An interactive lab simulation demonstrates the effects of increased carbon in the atmosphere and how that increase contributes to climate change. A data table for student records is available for download.
Climate Literacy
Clean: Carbon Dioxide Sources and Sinks
In this lab activity, students use a chemical indicator (bromothymol blue) to detect the presence of carbon dioxide in animal and plant respiration and in the burning of fossil fuels and its absence in the products of plant...
Other
Lehigh University: Energy
An inquiry-based science unit for middle school students centered on the world's energy sources. The lessons integrate technology and lab activities while teaching about energy sources, production, and consumption.
Annenberg Foundation
Annenberg Learner: The Habitable Planet: Energy Lab
Try and meet global energy demands by using alternative energy sources while keeping the carbon levels in the atmosphere down to acceptable levels. Simulator includes a data table available for download for student records.
Khan Academy
Khan Academy: Growing Appetites, Limited Resources Quiz
Try this quiz about energy demand and resources.