Nuclear Power

Lesson Plan: Understanding Nuclear Reactors, Their Uses, and Future in Space Travel

Lesson Overview

In this lesson, students will explore how nuclear reactors work, their current primary uses (including power generation and naval ships), and the potential future role of nuclear reactors in space exploration. The lesson will introduce Framatome and BWXT, two companies involved in nuclear technology. Students will use Adobe Express to create visual presentations summarizing the workings of nuclear reactors and their applications.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

1. Explain the basic components and function of a nuclear reactor.

2. Identify the primary uses of nuclear reactors, including in power plants and naval ships.

3. Understand the potential role of nuclear reactors in space travel.

4. Use Adobe Express to create a digital infographic or presentation that highlights nuclear energy's current and future uses, including the role of companies like Framatome and BWXT.

Activity: Creating an Infographic Using Adobe Express (30 minutes)

1. Instructions

   • students will use Adobe Express to create an infographic that explains the role of nuclear reactors on Earth and in space, and highlights companies like Framatome and BWXT that are advancing nuclear technology.

   • Students should include the following elements in their infographic:

     • How a Nuclear Reactor Works: Briefly explain the process of nuclear fission and describe the key parts of a reactor (e.g., fuel rods, control rods).

     • Uses of Nuclear Reactors on Earth: Include at least two uses (electricity generation and nuclear-powered ships). Mention companies like Framatome for power plants and BWXT for naval reactors.

     • Potential Use in Space: Explain how nuclear power could be used for space travel, focusing on future space missions that need reliable, long-term energy sources.

2. Adobe Express Features:

   • Encourage students to use icons, images, and diagrams to make their infographics visually appealing and easy to understand.

3. Wrap-Up: Allow a few students to present their infographics, discussing how they represented the information and explaining the role of companies like Framatome and BWXT.