Game
Play NASA Climate Kids’ Power Up game to learn more about using solar and wind energy.
STEM Exploration Lesson
Solar Energy & Experiment Variables
Grades: 4-5
Time: 30 minutes
Overview
Play a game to learn more about renewable energy, and practice identifying independent and dependent variables by conducting some “slimy” experiments.
Materials
Goals
Objectives
Next Generation Science Standards
Materials
- Computer with internet access + speakers
Goals
- Play a game to learn more about using solar and wind power; and
- Think about the science aspects of making slime.
Objectives
- Play a game to transfer solar energy and wind energy into electricity for people’s homes;
- Distinguish between control and experimental groups in slime experiments.
Next Generation Science Standards
ESS3.A
Natural Resources. Energy and fuels that humans use are derived from natural sources, and their use affects the environment in multiple ways. Some resources are renewable over time, and others are not.
5-PS3-1
Energy can be transferred in various ways and between objects.
4-PS3-1
Use evidence (e.g., measurements, observations, patterns) to construct an explanation.
4-PS3-4
Apply scientific ideas to solve design problems.
4-PS3-4
Apply scientific ideas to design, test, and refine a device that converts energy from one form to another.
Activity Instructions
Watch some really cool science experiments. See if you can identify some independent and dependent variables in the experiments!
*You can do these experiments later with a parent or guardian’s permission. If you do these at home, please have adult supervision!