Teaching Energy Conservation
When teaching conservation to kids, it is important to point out the contrasts between "renewable" energy sources and "non-renewable" energy sources. Currently, California mostly relies on natural gas as an energy source. Using natural gas is a relatively clean way of providing energy, however it is a scarce commodity. California also relies on fossil fuels and coal, which pollute the air, water, and soil. These resources are all non-renewable sources of energy, meaning that the earth provides only a limited amount of them. Renewable sources of energy usually refer to the sun, wind, and waterways. In the 1990's in San Mateo County, the amount of wind and solar power generated was less than one-hundredth of one percent. While these energy sources are being developed conceptually and technologically, schools and teachers can give their students projects and assignments to get kids involved in the conservation effort. Check out these links for excellent teaching materials and ideas:
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The Energy Quest webpage is designed for grammar school students and covers the different types of energy and the ways in which to conserve energy. There are educational games, stories, and pictures that are perfect for introducing the topic. |
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Learn everything you wanted to know about renewable energy! This web site has interesting facts, pictures, and essays on every aspect of renewable energy. |
