The following clean energy learning resources are for use by K-12 teachers, students, and parents.
Virtual Clean Energy Ambassador Visits
Teachers can request virtual visits from UW students with their K-12 classrooms. A virtual visit lasts 30-45 minutes over a video conferencing platform and includes a basic science presentation or demonstration on topics that align with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Speakers are prepared to present information about basic energy concepts, solar materials, energy storage, smart grids, and materials science.
Free Solar Kits for Teachers and Parents
Sundawg Bags: use the power of the sun to drive mini solar cars- Solar Spinner: build a device that spins when the sun hits it
Lesson Plans
Rainbow Bookmarks– Make a colorful bookmark that demonstrates how thin layers can split light into a rainbow. Grades 2-6
Sustainable model town– Build a paper town, complete with solar houses, wind turbines and a grid. Grades 2-6
Fuzzy Molecules Challenge– Make models of molecules with pipe cleaners and pom poms. Grades 4-8
Do-it-yourself SunDawg Bag– Instructions to make your own solar car activity bag. Grades 4-8
Solar Spinner– Make a solar spinner using a motor and solar cell or solar panel. Grades 4-8
Solar STEM Kit Challenge– Explore simple circuits with a kit you can purchase online. Grades 4-8
Solar Circuit Lesson– Make circuits with solar panels, a motor, and LEDs. Measure electricity with a multimeter. Grades 6-9
Videos
Solar spinner kit– Learn how to assemble a solar spinner. Grades 4-8
Battery applications– Learn how research on batteries will help make the switch to renewable energy possible. Grades 8-12
Semiconducting polymers for clean energy– Learn how researchers make plastics that conduct and generate electricity. Grades 8-12
Science Readings (pdf files) Grades 6-12
These readings on energy concepts include reading comprehension questions.