One reason for the widespread use of the energy concept across the sciences is that energy analysis can be used to interpret the behavior of systems even if one does not know the particular mechanisms that underlie the observed behavior. By providing an approach to interpreting unfamiliar phenomena, energy provides a lens on phenomena that can set…

This paper reports the findings of a quasi-experimental study that investigated the impacts of effective group work on Hong Kong science classrooms. One hundred and fifty-two Secondary 2 (or Grade 8) students from two schools participated in a teaching intervention (comprising 16 lessons) in which they studied the topic 'Making Use of Electricity'…

The energy concept is one of the most important ideas for students to understand. Looking at phenomena through the lens of energy provides powerful tools to model, analyse and predict phenomena in the scientific disciplines. The cross-disciplinary nature of the energy concept enables students to look at phenomena from different angles, helping…

A key challenge in designing a teaching programme on energy is in deciding how best to deal with the differences in how the word "energy" is used and understood in everyday discourse and in science. Many of the most important decisions and choices about energy matters, both for individuals and society, can be adequately understood from…

This article describes the Energy Transformation 4-H school enrichment curriculum. The curriculum addresses energy efficiency and conservation while meeting sixth-grade science essential standards requirements. Through experiential learning, including building and testing a model home, youth learn the relationship between various technologies and…

We explored analogies used for introducing students to the concept of potential energy wells. Two analogy systems were developed, a spring system and a novel system consisting of electrostatic spheres. These two, distinct analogies were housed within an interactive tool that allowed students to manipulate the analogous systems and witness changes…

This article describes how energy issues and education for sustainable development (ESD) are part of the agenda for two current European projects, CoDeS and SUSTAIN. The latter is mainly concerned with the development of inquiry-based primary and lower secondary science education while the former is a network that aims to learn more about…

The article outlines a couple of the most recent resources developed by the Centre for Alternative Technology for teaching about energy. The key elements are providing sound information on all the significant sources and inspiring pupils to make their own decisions about energy futures based on evidence. Our experience is that engaging pupils in…

Of the eight practices of science identified in "A Framework for K-12 Science Education" (NRC 2012), helping students develop and use models has been identified by many as an anchor (Schwarz and Passmore 2012; Windschitl 2012). In instruction, disciplinary core ideas, crosscutting concepts, and scientific practices can be meaningfully…

This document presents some of the projects that were highly rated and recommended for funding by the FirstEnergy Educational Advisory Council. A panel of educators and school administrators evaluated and endorsed the educational resources made available to schools and community groups. Project titles; teacher, school, and contact information; the…

Describes two broad approaches to the introduction of the concept of energy in school science: the psychology-driven positions and the academic physics-driven positions. Outlines interrelationships, relative merits in certain circumstances, and the extent they might feed into each other. Presents historical evidence that they may not be as…

Notes that energy is a difficult concept to learn and provides problems for many students. Stresses that if the science education community were to develop a standard nomenclature of energy-related terms, it would be possible to eliminate some of the difficulties without reducing depth of treatment. (Author/MVL)

Over the past 25 years, the author has had the opportunity to study the subject of solar energy and to get involved with the installation, operation, and testing of solar energy systems. His work has taken him all over the United States and put him in contact with solar experts from around the world. He has also had the good fortune of seeing some…

Presented is an activity designed to raise energy awareness, teach electricity conservation, and show students how to carry out a science project. Included are objectives, a list of materials, procedures, student information sheets on meter reading, sample charts and graphs, and a sample awards certificate. (CW)

Described is a project designed to give students an understanding of the environmental implications of current energy practices and a chance to participate in a project that may have a measurable impact on environmental quality. Suggestions for the integration of this project into high school science classes are provided. (CW)