Geothermal Energy Framework
Topics: Geology and History of Renewable Energy
Source: The Geothermal Education Office (GEO), Oregon Department of Energy with the support of Bonneville Power Administration
Web address: http://www.bpa.gov/corporate/kr/ed/geothermal/homepage.htm
Grade Levels: 6-10
Learning Strategies: Background reading, hands-on activities
Frameworks Connections:
Science and Technology/Engineering
- Earth and Space Science, Grades 9-10
1. Matter and Energy in the Earth System
2. The Earth’s Sources of Energy - Physical Science, Grades 6-8
Forms of Energy
Heat Energy - Technology/Engineering, Grades 6-8
2. Engineering Design
- Technology/Engineering, Grade 9 or 10
1. Engineering Design
4. Energy and Power Technologies – Thermal Systems
Cost: Free
Decription: This curriculum deals with renewable and nonrenewable energy, the many uses of these types of energy, the geology behind them, and their histories. The integration of higher order thinking and problem-solving skills is suggested within the activities. Within each section of the unit there is a student information section that contains background information about the activity students will be performing and reproducible activity sheets.
The teacher’s guide includes direction on the activity, safety precautions and a glossary for the entire unit. Lessons and activities include: “What is energy?”, “Earth’s Natural Heat”, and “Generating Electricity”, each of which are designed to improve student skills in the laboratory and address relevant frameworks in Massachusetts.
Although the activities are geared toward middle school ages, relevant information for high school students is also included. The website is clear, and the lessons for use in the classroom are readily available.