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Sustainability Lesson Clearinghouse
Solar Cell Simulation
Lesson Description:
Students model the flow of energy from the sun as it enters a photovoltaic cell, moves along a wire and powers a load. The game-like atmosphere involves the younger students and helps them understand the continuous nature of the flow of energy. For a related lesson, please see the activity “solar powered system”.
Students model the flow of energy from the sun as it enters a photovoltaic cell, moves along a wire and powers a load. The game-like atmosphere involves the younger students and helps them understand the continuous nature of the flow of energy. For a related lesson, please see the activity “solar powered system”.
Lesson Type:
- Group Work
- Project
Sustainability Topic:
- Energy
GEF Program Category:
- Green Energy Challenge
Time Needed:
30 minutes
30 minutes
Standards Addressed:
- National standards: k-4
- Pri-b: 3.a. Light travels in a straight line until it strikes an object. light can be reflected by a mirror, refracted by a lens, or absorbed by the object.
- Pri-b: 3.c. Electricity in circuits can produce light, heat, sound, and magnetic effects. electrical circuits require a complete loop through which an electrical current can pass.
Materials Needed:
- Open area (field or playground)
- Chalk or traffic -tape to outline areas
- Bell
- 40 ft String or rope, with 10 knots 2 feet apart (the rest is unknotted. Knot the two ends of rope together in a large circle.)
Submitted By:
Green Education Foundation (GEF) on Behalf of Florida Solar Energy Center
Green Education Foundation (GEF) on Behalf of Florida Solar Energy Center
School or Group:
Florida Solar Energy Center
Florida Solar Energy Center
Contact Email:
service@greeneducationfoundation.org
service@greeneducationfoundation.org
Located in: Creativity | Creativity