Renewable Energy Algebra Lesson: Solar Energy
Created by Teacher(s): Effie Wolters, Mallory Swafford|Published on: November 4, 2022
Grades: 6, 7, 8
Type: Lesson Plan
Subjects: Mathematics
Duration: 1 hour
Created by: SubjectToClimate teachers
Region: Global
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
In this lesson, students complete real-world calculations related to residential solar energy use, including the number of solar panels needed to power the average house and how many solar panels could fit on their own home or a local building.
Inquire: Students complete calculations to determine if the average American home could be powered using solar panels.
Investigate: Students explore the Google Project Sunroof site and use data from their home addresses to solve problems.
Inspire: Students discuss the benefits and drawbacks of using solar energy and explore equity issues related to the affordability of solar panels.
Share: This lesson plan is licensed under Creative Commons.
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Teacher Writer
Effie Wolters
6-8 Chemistry and Earth Science Teacher
Effie Wolters is a science educator with nine years of teaching experience. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of San Diego and a master’s degree in Teaching Instruction from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. She is licensed to teach General Science in Grades 5–8 and holds a Cambridge CELTA certification.
Mallory Swafford
Teacher
I graduated in 2014 from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale with a zoology degree. I worked in the field of zoology until 2018 when I decided to make the switch to education. I now am certified to teach first through sixth grades in general education. I am endorsed in middle grades science and I expect to finish my master's in high school biology this year. I love teaching science and am excited to work with the Subject to Climate team!
Scientist Reviewed
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