Energy Transitions Oral History Activity
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Provided by: Wisconsin Energy Institute|Published on: October 11, 2023
Lesson Plans
Scientist Reviewed
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Synopsis
- This Wisconsin-based learning activity brings people of all ages together as students conduct oral history interviews with family members and friends of an older generation.
- The interviews center upon memories of grandparents, older neighbors, or family friends regarding their experiences with energy sources, and the gradual transition away from fossil fuel usage.
- Extensions are provided to engage students in oral histories on a variety of topics.

Subjects: History, English Language Arts
Authors: Wisconsin Energy Institute
Region: North America, USA - Midwest, United States, Global, Wisconsin
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
Positives
- About halfway through the included video, the presenters begin teaching how to best conduct an oral history interview.
- This lesson will allow students to positively interact with someone of an older generation.
Additional Prerequisites
- It will be helpful for students to have a basic understanding of the phrase "oral history" before beginning the activity.
- Students will need access to a recording device.
Differentiation
- The embedded video mentions the difference between primary and secondary sources, which will be a helpful introduction or review for English and History classes.
- Although the activity and video are geared toward Wisconsin residents, the activity can be assigned throughout the United States and other English-speaking countries.
- This project can easily be implemented as cross-curricular research between Social Studies, Science, and English classes.
- Since the assignment lends itself to conversations about emotional reactions, it will be a beneficial resource for SEL inclusion.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
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