Students will explore solar energy, and decide whether this renewable energy could contribute to the energy mix in their community.
Could solar energy be used to provide electricity in your community?
Overview
Production of electrical power by solar cells reduces carbon dioxide from coal-burning power plants. However, maximum electrical output from solar cells depends on solar insolation (the amount of available sunlight in watts per square meter), the solar cell–sun angle, and temperature.
Students will read Exploration 2: Solar Energy of the Companion Reader below.
Students will use low voltage solar cells (4–6 volt panels) to design their own experiment or demonstration model to support their solar energy plan for their community. They can use the Solar Power Activity instructions below.
Group students in pairs or quads, depending on the amount of available equipment. Variables can be assigned, selected, or completed by all groups over multiple sessions. If each group is using a different set of variables, then the group will report findings to the class. Alternatively, the experiments can be turned into stations, with each group responsible for creating the instructions for the station experiment.
Suggested variables for student designed experiments using solar cells are:
Parallel circuit
Series circuit
Operating temperature
Light angle
Intensity of light
Frequency of light
Students will evaluate the pros and cons of using solar energy in their own community.
If low-voltage solar cells are not available, discuss the suggested variables with students, and explain when the cells generate the most energy, so students can still design their plans.
Close reading for background information.
Formatted experimental design sheet.
Sentence starters.
Mixed-ability groups.
Modification If No Solar Cells Are Available
Data can be collected using a 0.9-V solar panel and voltage meter; a protractor can be used to measure the angle of the solar panel; and a ruler can be used to help determine the angle.
Students should explain the relationship between voltage and solar panel angle. They should support their explanation with evidence.
