Renewable Energy Algebra Lesson: Peak Sun Hours
Created by Teacher(s): Effie Wolters|Published on: November 4, 2022
Grades: 6, 7, 8
Type: Lesson Plan
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
In this lesson, students explore solar energy by calculating the peak sun hours needed for solar panels using algebra. They apply their calculations to real-world data to assess the feasibility of using solar power in their area and predict whether their homes could be powered by solar panels based on their findings.
Inquire: Students work through a practice problem and discuss what they already know about solar energy.
Investigate: Students learn background information about solar energy, then use algebra to calculate the amount of peak sun hours needed to make a solar panel effective, and compare their calculated values to real-world data to determine if this amount of sunlight is possible in their area.
Inspire: Students make predictions and discuss if they think their home could be powered by solar panels using the calculations from class as evidence.
Share: This lesson plan is licensed under Creative Commons.
Related Lessons, Units, and Activities Teacher Writer
Effie Wolters
6-8 Chemistry and Earth Science Teacher
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
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