In this lesson plan, students learn how solar panels produce electricity by acting as electrons moving through a giant model of a solar cell and electrical circuit.
Students will expand their knowledge of Wisconsin's energy sources, develop a solar energy model, and discuss the benefits and drawbacks of using solar energy.
Students should already be familiar with the uses of electricity, where electricity comes from, and renewable vs nonrenewable electricity sources.
Preparation:
To set up the model solar panel and cell, teachers need plastic cones, rope, and printed labels/pictures from the last 11 pages of the document. Teachers must set this up ahead of time according to the diagram on page 2.
The activity requires some open space, so teachers may need to move desks to accommodate this. Alternatively, teachers can set up the activity outside or in a gym or cafeteria.
Classroom Implementation
Use in engineering and physical science classes learning about electrical circuits and cells.
Use in earth and space science classes to learn about solar and renewable energy.
Differentiation:
For younger grade levels, use simplified vocabulary and guide students more directly during the activity. Skip some of the more advanced introduction and discussion questions.
Extensions:
Students write pro/con lists for solar panels and traditional forms of electricity production like coal and natural gas and compare the lists to determine which sources of electricity they think are better.
Students write a summary of how solar cells produce electricity to synthesize and communicate what they have learned.
Challenge students to describe how energy is transferred from solar to electric, kinetic, or electromagnetic energy in objects with solar cells, such as calculators, outdoor lights, toys, etc.
Students observe the community to determine where solar panels are currently utilized and identify additional locations that would be effective for solar panels.
Students research organizations in their area that help with solar energy installation and access.
Consider exploring KEEP's Solar Load Lessons to help develop inquiry skills while using solar panels and different loads. Lessons include a discussion on climate change.
Interdisciplinary Connections:
English Language Arts:
Connect with this lesson by tasking students with writing persuasive letters to their school, district, or city to encourage the installation of solar panels.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
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