Discovering Renewable Energy

Lesson Overview

This lesson is designed to introduce Reception students to the concept of renewable energy through practical, hands-on activities. They will explore wind and solar energy by making a simple windmill and a solar panel model. The session aims to engage students' curiosity about the natural world, fostering communication, creativity, and collaborative skills.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, students will be able to:

1. Understand what renewable energy is and why it is important.
2. Identify wind and solar energy as types of renewable energy.
3. Create a simple windmill and a model solar panel using everyday materials.

Curriculum Links

• Understanding the World: Students will learn about natural resources and energy types.
• Expressive Arts and Design: Students will engage in the creative process of designing and building their models.
• Communication and Language: Students will use descriptive language to explain their creations and the concepts learned.

Materials Needed

• For Windmill Activity:

  • Paper cups (x2 per student)
  • Plastic straws (x1 per student)
  • Cardboard circle (cut out from a box; x1 per student)
  • Scissors (to be used by the teacher with student supervision)
  • Tape and glue
  • Small weights (like pebbles) for balancing

• For Solar Panel Activity:

  • Small solar panel kits (available at education stores; enough for 1 per group)
  • Battery (for demonstration purposes)
  • Simple LED light
  • Wire (provided with solar panel kits)

• Additional Supplies:

  • Markers for decorating
  • Worksheets for drawings and notes
  • Clean-up materials (wipes, bags)

Structure of the Lesson (30 minutes)

Introduction (5 minutes)

• Welcome Activity:
  • Begin with a brief discussion, asking students if they know what energy is.
  • Introduce the topic of renewable energy using visuals (pictures of sunny days, windmills, etc.).
  • Share a fun fact: "Did you know the wind can help turn a windmill?"

Activity 1: Making Windmills (12 minutes)

• Demonstration (3 minutes):

  • Show students how to attach a straw to the cardboard circle using tape.
  • Explain how wind will make the windmill turn and why it’s important for energy.

• Hands-On Activity (9 minutes):

  • Distribute materials to each student and guide them to construct their windmills.
  • Encourage students to decorate their windmills with markers.
  • Once each windmill is built, take them outside (or near an open window) and have students test them against the wind to see them spin.

Activity 2: Exploring Solar Energy (10 minutes)

• Demonstration (2 minutes):

  • Show the students how the solar panel works by connecting it to a small LED light.
  • Explain that the light goes on when the sun shines on the solar panel, showcasing renewable energy’s power.

• Hands-On Activity (8 minutes):

  • In small groups of 4, guide students in setting up the solar panel kits.
  • Facilitate their understanding of how it generates power by letting them switch the light on and off as the panel is exposed to light.
  • Encourage dialogue among group members about what they observe.

Conclusion & Reflection (3 minutes)

• Whole Class Discussion:
  • Gather students in a circle and ask them to share what they learned.
  • Prompt questions like “What is your favourite part of today?” or “What did you learn about wind or solar energy?”
  • Reinforce key vocabulary (renewable, wind, solar, energy).

Assessment

• Monitor student participation during hands-on activities and discussions.
• Review their understanding through their contributions to the final reflection.

Tips for Teachers

• Ensure safety while using scissors.
• Be aware of any allergies related to the materials used.
• Offer support to students who may struggle with the hands-on tasks.
• Encourage students to work collaboratively and problem-solve as they create.

This lesson stands out by providing a multi-sensory approach to understanding renewable energy, fostering curiosity, collaboration, and creativity while meeting Early Years Foundation Stage guidelines.