Energy Webquest

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INSTRUCTIONS

For Energy Source Web Quest

Introduction

There are ten major energy sources used in the United States today. Energy is a part of every aspect of our lives. It is important to learn about energy and its impact on our society.

Objective

Students will learn about energy sources using web-based resources and create an AppleWorks presentation to teach other students.

Procedure

1. Students in groups of two will be assigned an energy source.

2. Student groups will use the computer lab to research information about their energy source, using at least three of the web resources listed.

3. Student groups will use the lab to create AppleWorks presentations on their energy source. The presentations will include:

• Title slide
• At least 7 points that provide the following information about the energy source:
  • description of the energy source, including renewable or nonrenewable
  • history of the energy source
  • where the energy source is found and how it is recovered
  • how energy is stored in the source and how the energy is released
  • how the energy source is used today
  • advantages and disadvantages of the energy source
  • economic impacts of the energy source
  • environmental impacts of the energy source
  • future of the energy source
  • other interesting facts about the energy source
• Resource listing slide

4. Student groups will present their projects to the class.

Resources

http://www.need.org/infobooks.htm

http://www.eia.doe.gov/kids: Energy Information Administration's Kid's Page

http://www.energy.gov/engine/content.do?BT_CODE=KIDS

http://www.eere.energy.gov/kids/index.html

http://www.rmi.org/sitepages/pid473.php

Evaluation

Students will evaluate each group using a 1-to-5 rubric which includes knowledge of the energy source, content of the presentation, level of participation in the research and presentation, and design and creativity of the presentation.

Conclusion

Class discussion emphasizing the fact that every energy source has advantages and disadvantages and that it is important to use many energy sources to provide the energy needed in the U.S.

This activity was developed by Doris Tomas, NEED Lead Teacher, Jackson Elementary School, Rosenberg, TX and modified by Lynn Gilmore 4th grade teacher at Anne Sullivan Elementary School, Prospect Heights, IL.