Discusses the wide variety of energy resources. Suggests that increasing demands are being placed on traditional sources and that new developments will be needed to maintain and improve the quality of the environment. Includes a student learning activity. (JOW)

The solar air heater is a simple device for catching some of the sun's energy to heat a home. Procedures for making and installing such a heater are presented. Included is a materials list, including tools needed for constructing the heater, sources for obtaining further details, and a list of material specifications. (JN)

During the 1920s and 1930s, millions of wind energy systems were used on farms and other locations far from utility lines. However, with passage of the Rural Electrification Act in 1939, cheap electricity was brought to rural areas. After that, the use of wind machines dramatically declined. Recently, the rapid rise in fuel prices has led to a…

This booklet provides an introduction to solar energy by discussing: (1) how a home is heated; (2) how solar energy can help in the heating process; (3) the characteristics of passive solar houses; (4) the characteristics of active solar houses; (5) how solar heat is stored; and (6) other uses of solar energy. Also provided are 10 questions to…

The design of any solar heating system is influenced heavily by climate; in this bulletin, information on climate as related to solar heating is as related to solar heating is provided. Topics discussed include: (1) solar radiation; (2) degree days; (3) climate and calculations which make use of solar radiation and degree days; and (4)…

An introduction to geothermal energy is provided in this discussion of: (1) how a geothermal reservoir works; (2) how to find geothermal energy; (3) where it is located; (4) electric power generation using geothermal energy; (5) use of geothermal energy as a direct source of heat; (6) geopressured reservoirs; (7) environmental effects; (8)…

Attached solar greenhouses are relatively inexpensive and easy to build; they can provide additional heat to homes all winter as well as fresh vegetables and flowers. This bulletin: (1) describes the characteristics of a solar greenhouse; (2) provides a checklist of five items to consider before building a solar greenhouse; (3) describes the four…

Presented is a list of 20 books on renewable energy resources. These books are suitable for children in the elementary grades. Each entry includes the title, author(s) or editor(s), number of pages, price, publication date, recommended grade level(s), and source. (JN)

Editorializes briefly upon general progress in solar energy with a focus on electricity generated by a range of solar technologies. Suggests a major educational effort is essential to increase public's awareness of benefits and limitations of solar electricity. Briefly describes a multidisciplinary solar energy education kit for grade levels from…

Discusses themes and ideas for social studies teachers to use in teaching about energy. Addresses energy transitions, the rate of technology change, energy and economic growth, and comparing and developing new energy sources. Concludes that students need a historical and social context for understanding the environmental and economic problems that…

This booklet provides an introduction to renewable energy, discussing: (1) the production of electricity from sunlight; (2) wind power; (3) hydroelectric power; (4) geothermal energy; and (5) biomass. Also provided are nine questions to answer (based on the readings), four additional questions to answer (which require additional information), and…

Filipino scientists and inventors have tried many ways of using solar energy. One simple device, made of wood and ordinary plastic sheets, traps solar energy to dry palay grains and other agricultural products. In this module, information and activities are provided to help students: (1) learn the advantages of using a solar crop dryer over direct…

Many kinds of jobs can be found in the renewable energy and energy conservation industries. This pamphlet indicates that a large career potential exists within the solar and conservation professions and trades. These careers consist of individuals who design, build, or install solar heating or hot water systems, who implement energy conservation…

Suggests energy-related activities that represent different instructional approaches and can be adapted for different age levels. Includes library research, debates, role playing, games, and mock trials. Offers questions to be used in connection with the activities. Examines the future of energy use and international inequality of use. (DK)

This module is designed to help students: (1) describe a way of tapping solar energy; (2) identify the main parts of a box type solar cooker; (3) describe how each part contributes to the trapping of heat energy in the cooker; (4) cook some food in a solar cooker; and (5) recognize that food cooked in a solar cooker is safe to eat. It includes: an…