Why Don't We Cover the Desert with Solar Panels?

• This animated video explains how solar panels work and describes some of the benefits and challenges of using solar energy on a large scale. 
• This resource includes comprehension questions, links to explore further, and a guided discussion board. 

Positives

• This video uses engaging animations that students will enjoy.
• The video provides a balanced view of the benefits and disadvantages of large-scale solar energy plants.
  

Additional Prerequisites

• Students and teachers must create a free account to use the "think" and "discuss" features.
• Teachers can modify the TED-Ed questions and create new discussions.
  

Differentiation

• Students could compare and contrast solar energy with other energy sources.
• Students could research options for using solar energy on a small scale in their homes, school, or community.
• Economics classes could compare the cost of solar energy with other energy sources. Students could discuss the connection between the increase in demand for solar energy and the price decrease.
• Geography classes could use this interactive solar energy potential map to locate suitable sites for solar farms.
• Other resources on this topic include this Khan Academy video on solar energy technology, this digital book on the basics of solar energy, and this interactive map on solar energy infrastructure in the United States.

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