Renewable Energy Algebra Lesson: Wind Energy
Lesson Plan
1 hourGrades6, 7, 8Mathematics
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Written by Effie Wolters, Mallory Swafford
About this lesson
In this lesson, students use algebra to calculate the number of wind turbines needed to power a local community.
Inquire: Students watch a short video introducing wind energy and discuss the possibility of wind energy powering their community.
Investigate: Students complete a series of mathematical calculations related to wind energy.
Inspire: Students discuss the benefits of wind energy using their calculations to support their ideas.
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Everything you need to teach it
How to edit these materials (video)Teaching tips
Suggestions
- Students use their algebra skills in a real-world application.
- The calculations are relevant to students because they estimate the number of wind turbines needed for their own city.
- Students practice supporting their ideas with evidence, which is a skill that is applicable across all disciplines.
Additional Prerequisites
- This is lesson 3 of 5 in the 6th-8th grade Renewable Energy Algebra unit.
- Students will need calculators.
- Teachers may need to provide the population of their city to students for question 5 on the Student Document.
- One-to-one technology is ideal. If this is not possible, omit questions 9 and 10 on the Student Document or complete these questions as a class.
Differentiation
- Teachers can have students work in pairs or small groups to complete the calculations instead of individually.
- The discussion at the end of the lesson could be done as a whole group instead of first in pairs.
- Teachers can complete the first few questions with students to get them started before letting them work individually.
- As an optional extension, students can write a letter to a local policymaker encouraging them to invest in renewable energy. Students should include their calculations as evidence.
From the scientist review
This lesson has students determine the energy generated from a wind turbine. They would be able to analyze the number of units needed for a household, a community, or a small town and share with their community the pros and cons of investing in wind power. All materials were thoroughly reviewed, and this lesson has passed the credibility review process.
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About the teacher writers
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!
