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Solar Lesson Plans

Elementary(K-6)

Stuffed Suns

The student will be observe the items that use energy in their own homes, calculate the energy cost for their own homes, and compare this cost with others in their class and with the national average.

UV Beads

The student will be able to observe the affects of the sunlight on objects and how we can protect ourselves.

UV Beads 2

Students will use the scientific method to test variables associated with blocking the sun's harmful ultraviolet light. Students will work collaborative to conduct an experiment with one variable.

Pringles Cooker

The student will learn how to build a solar hot dog cooker and test its ability to function.

The Solar Bag

The students will be able to work in groups and show how solar energy can change the air temperature.

Solar Oven

The student will review the basic needs for alternative energy sources, identify at least three different materials that will produce maximum heat, identify at least three different colors that will produce maximum heat,and be able to solve a design problem for a solar hot box.

Solar Oven S'Mores 1

The student will be able to complete a working solar oven and discuss different possible materials to make their oven more efficient.

Solar Oven S'Mores 2

Students will learn about the importance of the sun’s energy and how we can use the sun’s energy as a valuable resource.

Parabolic Cooker

The student will be able to follow directions and make a working solar cooker.

Solar Energy Radiometer

Students will be able to define energy sources, define the concept of renewable energy and explain the concept of solar energy using a Radiometer.

The Sun's Energy

Students will learn about the importance of the sun’s energy. They will also learn why some areas of the earth receive more heat and light than other areas.

Intermediate(7-9)

Introduction of Solar Energy

Introduce to solar energy by classroom discussion, reading the background information and finding answers to their questions in the reading and classroom discussion.

Solar Hot Dog Cooker

To explore the conversion of radiant (electromagnetic) energy to thermal energy and how it can be used.

Transforming Solar Energy into Heat

Transform radiant energy into thermal energy, motion and electricity. To decide which light source is the best for producing motion from the vanes of a radiometer. To decide which wavelength is the best for producing electricity from a solar panel.

Solar Collection

To learn that radiant energy can be collected and converted into heat and stored.

Solar Concentration

To learn that radiant energy can be concentrated on an object with a concave mirror.

Converting Radiant Energy to Heat

To demonstrate that radiant energy can be absorbed or reflected by objects. Some of the energy absorbed by objects is converted into heat.

Solar Oven Cookies 1

SWBAT keep track and chart temperatures from the over & SWBAT explain the heating process of the oven through writing a paragraph about the process.

Secondary(9-14)

Solar Powered Cars

Students will learn to use solar power in a basic model application. Different styles and designs will be used to explore the scientific process.

Sun Strength Calculations

To compare the angle of the Sun as it changes through the day, and compare it to the power it produces, as measured in volts in a small PV cell. Students will understand the difference in solar energy density based upon the Sun’s position in the sky based upon time and location.

Passive Solar Water Heater

To demonstrate solar energy on a small scale water heater. Students should understand how radiant energy is transformed into thermal energy, and that the thermal energy could be used by people in their homes. This is a scale model to show proof of concept.

Solar Oven Cookies 2

Complete a working solar oven & discuss different designs and materials.

*Note: Lesson Plans have a suggested grade level. They are not vested lesson plans and they have not been peer-reviewed. Please feel free to modify and use as needed to fit your grade level.