Lesson Plan | Technical Methodology | Renewable and Non-Renewable Energies

Objectives

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

The purpose of this stage is to establish a solid theoretical foundation that allows students to understand the differences and characteristics of renewable and non-renewable energies. It is crucial for the development of practical skills applicable in the job market and to foster awareness about environmental sustainability. This initial understanding is fundamental for students to actively participate in subsequent practical and reflective activities, facilitating the application of acquired knowledge in real contexts.

Main Objectives

1. Differentiate between renewable and non-renewable energies.

2. Recognize the main renewable energy sources in use and in development.

Side Objectives

1. Understand the importance of renewable energies for environmental sustainability.
2. Identify the impacts of non-renewable energies on the environment and the economy.

Introduction

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

The purpose of this stage is to establish a solid theoretical foundation that allows students to understand the differences and characteristics of renewable and non-renewable energies. It is crucial for the development of practical skills applicable in the job market and to foster awareness about environmental sustainability. This initial understanding is fundamental for students to actively participate in subsequent practical and reflective activities, facilitating the application of acquired knowledge in real contexts.

Contextualization

Energy is one of the fundamental pillars of modern society. From heating our homes to powering entire industries, the way we generate and use energy has a direct impact on our daily lives and the environment. With the growing concern about climate change and sustainability, the transition from non-renewable to renewable energy sources has become a central theme in global discussions. This class will address the differences between these energy sources and highlight the importance of technological innovation for a more sustainable future.

Curiosities and Market Connection

🔋 Curiosities and Market Connection: Did you know that the world's first hydroelectric plant was built in 1882 in the United States? Since then, hydropower has become one of the main sources of renewable energy. Solar energy is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. In 2020, the photovoltaic solar market generated over 3 million jobs globally. Companies like Google and Apple are massively investing in renewable energies to power their data centers, significantly reducing their carbon footprint and promoting sustainability.

Initial Activity

📽️ Initial Activity: Show a short video (3-5 minutes) about the difference between renewable and non-renewable energies. Suggested video: 'Renewable vs. Non-Renewable Energies - Quick Explanation'. After the video, ask the students the following question: 'What are the most significant environmental and economic impacts of non-renewable energies that you could identify?'. Promote a brief discussion of 5 minutes for students to share their answers and reflections.

Development

Duration: (40 - 50 minutes)

The purpose of this stage is to promote a deep understanding of the differences between renewable and non-renewable energies and their impacts, as well as to stimulate the practical application of the knowledge acquired through a maker activity. Through the construction of a solar panel model, students will experience in practice the theoretical concepts discussed, developing technical skills and teamwork. The fixation exercises and assessment aim to consolidate learning and allow the teacher to evaluate students' understanding of the topic.

Covered Topics

1. Difference between renewable and non-renewable energies
2. Main renewable energy sources: solar, wind, hydropower, biomass, and geothermal
3. Environmental and economic impacts of non-renewable energies
4. Technological advances and innovations in renewable energies
5. Future perspectives for the renewable energy market

Reflections on the Theme

Guide students to reflect on how the transition to renewable energies could influence different aspects of society, including the economy, the environment, and job creation. Ask how they imagine their own lives may be impacted by this transition and what their role as future professionals and conscious citizens is in promoting a sustainable future.

Mini Challenge

Construction of a Solar Panel Model

Students will build a simple model of a solar panel using recycled materials and basic electronic components. This practical activity aims to demonstrate the basic functioning of a solar panel and how it can be used to generate energy.

Instructions

1. Divide students into groups of 4-5 people.
2. Distribute the kit of materials to each group, containing: small solar cells, electrical wires, tape, scissors, black cardboard, hot glue, and an LED bulb.
3. Briefly explain how solar cells work and how they convert light into electricity.
4. Ask the groups to assemble the solar panel by gluing the solar cells onto the black cardboard and connecting the electrical wires to the cells and the LED bulb.
5. Guide students to test their panels under sunlight or an artificial light source to check if the LED bulb lights up.
6. After construction, each group should present their solar panel, explaining the construction process and the challenges faced.

Objective: To practically demonstrate how solar energy can be captured and converted into electrical energy, as well as to encourage creativity and teamwork.

Duration: (30 - 40 minutes)

Evaluation Exercises

1. Explain the difference between renewable and non-renewable energy, giving examples of each.
2. List the main renewable energy sources and briefly describe how each of them works.
3. What are the main environmental and economic impacts of non-renewable energies?
4. Discuss recent technological advances in renewable energies and how they contribute to a more sustainable future.
5. How do you imagine the job market will be impacted by the transition to renewable energies? Give examples.

Conclusion

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

The purpose of this stage is to ensure that students leave the class with a clear and consolidated understanding of the concepts worked on, recognizing the connection between theory and practice and reflecting on the importance of the topic for the future. This stage also aims to encourage students to actively engage in the discussion about renewable energies, promoting meaningful and relevant learning.

Discussion

💬 Discussion: Promote an open discussion with students about the topics covered in the class. Ask how the construction of the solar panel helped to understand the concepts of renewable energy in practice. Encourage students to reflect on the challenges faced during the practical activity and how these challenges relate to real problems encountered in the development of renewable energy technologies. Also, ask how they envision the future of renewable energies and the impact of these technologies on the job market and society in general.

Summary

📚 Summary: Recap the main points covered during the class, including the difference between renewable and non-renewable energies, the main renewable energy sources (solar, wind, hydropower, biomass, and geothermal), the environmental and economic impacts of non-renewable energies, and technological advances and innovations in renewable energies. Highlight how the practical activity of building the solar panel helped to consolidate these concepts.

Closing

🔚 Closing: Explain how the class connected theory, practice, and applications of renewable and non-renewable energies. Emphasize the importance of the topic for daily life, highlighting its practical applications and relevance for environmental sustainability and the job market. Conclude by emphasizing the role of students as future professionals and conscious citizens in promoting a more sustainable future.