In this lesson plan, students explore the difference between electrical power and energy as they relate to common household appliances.
Students learn the average wattages of appliances, the definition of kilowatt hour, and how to reduce the energy consumption in their homes and schools.
This activity is part of KEEP's Building Energy Detectives lessons where students explore the phenomenon, "What energy actions can I take at school, at home, and in my community to create a more sustainable future."
It will be helpful, but not required, for teachers to have access to a color printer, a laminator, and a watt meter.
Since many discussion questions are multiple-choice, teachers must print them separately or provide another visual aid with possible answers displayed.
Prerequisites:
It may benefit students to understand where our energy comes from and how it impacts the environment.
Interdisciplinary Connections:
English Language Arts:
Have students answer the extension question regarding ways to conserve energy as an academic paragraph or a personal narrative.
Math:
Have students answer the extension question regarding calculating energy usage for one appliance in one week, month, and year. Students participate in a small-group activity with different groups calculating for various appliances.
Extensions:
After completing the lesson, students create infographics to inform people how to reduce their energy consumption.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
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