Lesson summary
After thinking about a range of solar related questions, students design experiments to find out some principles about using solar energy. NB the experiments will works best on a sunny day.
Learning intentions:
Students will...
- design experiments and collect data about solar energy
- communicate effectively in fair and considered class-wide discussion on issues
- demonstrate the ability to read, evaluate and interpret information about the issues.
- communicate lessons from activity through art or literacy exercises (extension).
Lesson guides and printables
Lesson details
Curriculum mapping
Australian curriculum content descriptions:
Year 7 Science:
- Collaboratively and individually plan and conduct a range of investigation types, including fieldwork and experiments, ensuring safety and ethical guidelines are followed (ACSIS125)
- Summarise data, from students’ own investigations and secondary sources, and use scientific understanding to identify relationships and draw conclusions (ACSIS130)
Year 8 Science:
- Collaboratively and individually plan and conduct a range of investigation types, including fieldwork and experiments, ensuring safety and ethical guidelines are followed (ACSIS140)
- Summarise data, from students’ own investigations and secondary sources, and use scientific understanding to identify relationships and draw conclusions (ACSIS145)
Syllabus Outcomes: SC4-5WS, SC4-6WS, SC4-7WS.Â
Indoor or outdoor activity:Â Indoor/outdoor
Time required:Â 90 mins
Level of teacher scaffolding:Â Provide students with materials and opportunities to design experiments. Reinforce safe behavior while students are involved in experiments. Lead students in class discussion around solar energy.
Homework and extension opportunities:Â This activity has opportunities for homework or extension.
Resources Required
- Provide students with materials and opportunities to design experiments.
- Internet access
- Art and writing materials
Safety:Â Students should not walk around with glass thermometers
Additional info
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