Pie in the Sky

• This short, animated video features a fun group of characters as they work to discover why a solar oven works differently in winter than in summer.
• Students will learn that the angle of the Sun's rays change as the seasons change, and how this may impact the solar energy available to heat the pizza in the solar oven.

Positives

• This video is entertaining with amusing characters and engaging graphics.
• This resource is an effective way to teach about one aspect of solar energy in a way that is relatable to students.

Additional Prerequisites

• Some basic background knowledge on solar energy may be beneficial to students before viewing this video.
• This video is short and is packed with information, so showing it more than once may aid comprehension.

Differentiation

• Provide students with a simple graphic organizer or note-taking guide that asks them to explain the problem and the solution presented in the video.
• Pair students up to discuss why Dewey's solar oven didn't work properly and then have them draw a diagram explaining the problem.
• To differentiate background information, have some students watch this video about the tilt of the Earth's axis or read this online storybook about fossil fuels and clean energy, while students who need extension information can read this more comprehensive e-book on renewable energy sources or use this more advanced video and interactive about the seasons. 
• This may serve as a great introduction to a lesson about solar ovens, such as this lesson where students build a simple solar cooker or this video where students watch someone build a solar oven.

This resource addresses the listed standards. To fully meet standards, search for more related resources.