Using Wind Energy to Generate Electricity – A STEM Product

This STEM product addresses Next Generation Science - Common Core Standards with a study of wind energy, its environmental benefits, and the challenges wind energy faces to become a supplier of electricity.

The product contains a 17 slide power point presentation, a student worksheet, extension projects, Teacher notes and answer keys, and an instructional MP4 video on Excel charting, and a completed Excel spreadsheet with formulas.

The PowerPoint shows how windmills use wind energy to generate electricity. It also covers the benefits of generating electricity with wind, and the issues associated with wind energy. In addition, students will build skills for the ACT science test by reading charts and graphs, and doing data analysis and interpretation. The PowerPoint can be used as a stand-alone classroom activity if desired, with the extension projects used as additional skill building and critical thinking activities

The instructor can use the discussion questions at the end of the slide presentation to encourage critical thinking and in-class discussions, or use them as additional extension assignments for the students to write up and turn in.

Extension projects are provided which use a simple mathematical model, using Excel, to easily explore how changes in such things as:

• Windmill load factor

• Energy conservation by customers

• Size of turbines

These things affect the land needed to produce wind power. The Excel spreadsheet is provided, along with detailed teacher instructions on its design and use. Formulas are also provided to allow the calculations to be done with a calculator as well. In the event the students cannot access Excel, the formulas are provided, and the work can be done with a calculator and graph paper.

The extension projects build skills in data analysis and data interpretation, and include charting to allow the students to develop and improve their skills in these areas.

Common Core Next Generation Science Standards

HS-PS3-3

HS-LS2-7

HS-ESS3-4

HS-ETS1-1

HS-ETS1-2

HS-ETS1-3

HSESS3