Ready for action?
Resources
Web links
Tangible Resources
Preparation
Put dynamo models together and/or buy kits and a large dynamo.
Goals, messages & concepts
Specific goals
- Learn about the various technologies used to generate electrical energy.
- Recognise the different types of power plants and the advantages/ disadvantages of each.
- Understand that electrical appliances in the home consume varying amounts of energy.
- Compare levels of household electricity consumption with levels of industrial consumption.
Specific messages
- Electrical energy is a type of energy.
- In order to generate electrical energy, a source of energy is required.
Main terms
- electrical energy
- power plant
Practices & skills
STEM practices
- Analysing and interpreting data
- Constructing explanations and designing solutions
- Developing and using models
- Engaging in argument from evidence
- Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information
- Using mathematics and computational thinking
- Asking questions and defining problems
- Planning and carrying out investigations
Soft skills
- Dealing with uncertainty
- Learning failure is a part of learning
- Teamwork and collaboration
Management skills
- Planning
- Use of resources
Course of activity
step 1
Students will carry out an experiment with electricity-generating models to learn how a power plant works. Discuss how electrical energy is produced for use in our homes, industry etc.
step 2
Use a large dynamo to demonstrate how it generates electrical energy (lighting a bulb).
step 3
Students will use the coils and magnets to turn on LED lights:
- Generate electrical energy by moving magnets inside a coil.
- What happens when you place the magnet in the coil without moving it in relation to the coil?
- Is energy generated?
What causes the lights to turn on?
step 4
Optional: Build dynamos in pairs and experiment.
Watch the video - How does a power plant work and discuss the different types of power plants. What kind of energy sources can be used to turn a turbine? Introduce the ideas that non-renewable energy sources (fossil fuels) pollute the environment.
step 5
Next, students will analyse a household electricity bill and compare it to industry consumption. Students will complete the assignment at home, either by themselves or with the help of parents, using the energy consumption calculator, and their electricity supplier's website. They will write down the consequences of high energy usage, and how they can reduce energy consumption in their homes.