Step #1:
The class will form groups of 2-3 students each.
Step #2:
I will randomly assign each group one of the following alternatives to fossil fuels:
1. Biomass Energy (biofuels)
2. Geothermal Energy
3. Hydroelectric Energy
4. Nuclear Fission Energy
5. Nuclear Fusion Energy
6. Solar Energy
7. Tidal Energy
8. Wind Energy
9. Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Step #3:
Using the links shown in the Resources section, each group will investigate their assigned alternative energy resource. Each group’s finished project should include, at a minimum, the following information about their resource:
● Process for producing power from the resource.
● Percentage of total U.S. energy production now; projections
for the future.
● What are the advantages of the resource?
● What are the disadvantages of the resource?
Note: Where appropriate, make comparisons against fossil fuels. Also, remember our discussion about internet-based resources; never trust a single source, always verify important facts through multiple sources.
Step #4:
Edit and compile your information to create one of the following finished products:
● Poster (18"x24").
● Printed pamphlet (double-sided, tri-fold).
Note: Use images, charts, and graphs to enhance your material, but be sure to credit work by others.
Step #5:
Sell your energy resource. Devise an ad campaign using one of the following formats:
● Jingle
● Skit
● Poem
● Interpretive Dance
● Video
Step #6:
Each group will take 4-6 minutes to give an oral presentation of their material in front of the class. Afterwards, they will place their poster or pamphlet on the gallery wall for future reference.
Note: All team members must substantially participate in the oral presentation.
Step #7:
Each member of the class will rate each group’s presentation on a scale of 1-10. The average class score will be a component of the final evaluation for each group.
Step #8:
After all groups have given presentations, each student will write a persuasive paper (250 words minimum) on the following topic:
● Which of the energy resources we studied do you think is
best suited for Oregon? Explain why, giving supporting
arguments.
Step #9:
For extra credit, see the Extension section.