Learning Symphony ~ Energy Effect

The Energy Effect
A Fully-Developed Interdisciplinary Project Using the Power of
Technology to Increase Learning for Grades 6 through 8

Overview
Energy is everywhere, but it can be difficult to understand. You may be able to see what energy does, but you cannot see energy itself. Without energy, plants, animals, and humans would not able to live. The Energy Effect is a multi-disciplinary project with a strong focus on math in the content areas. Each activity has a real-world math component. Students will learn how mathematical skills and concepts are integrated into all subjects. The Energy Effect provides students with multiple opportunities to experiment with energy, its sources, and its uses. As students explore the world from the perspective of energy, previously unrelated topics become intertwined. Students will recognize the connections among natural resources, politics, economics, science, technology, history, and culture. Through the activities in The Energy Effect, students will examine different forms of energy and understand the difference between renewable and nonrenewable energy resources. They will explore the effect the world’s current energy use is having on the environment.

The project will culminate with an Energy Extravaganza. This event will be an opportunity for students to present what they have learned and display the products they created to invited guests. This project strives to engage students by appealing to their natural creativity and curiosity, while providing students with a strong foundation in research skills using the Internet, print material, and computer software. Students will use technology to employ a variety of different learning styles and will demonstrate their understanding of the material in multiple formats. The Energy Effect project sets high academic goals and offers students the means to achieve them. The project emphasizes the use of primary source documents and Internet-based research. A distinct component of The Energy Effect project is its adaptability.

Project Scope

The project includes three distinct, content driven units of study. Each unit builds on the skill and knowledge of the previous unit. Together, the three units provide a holistic view of energy and how it relates to our world and our lives.


	Phase One:		Turn On to Energy! This is an introduction to the forms and uses of energy. Students will begin to see connections between energy use and its impact on the environment. The activities in this unit help students build prior knowledge and math skills they will need to successfully complete the project.
	Phase Two:		I’ve Got the Power! In this unit, students will examine different forms of energy, how energy use is calculated, and ways we use energy. They will collect and use data to develop an understanding of the relationship between energy consumption and energy production.
	Phase Three:		Power Positive! In this unit, students will evaluate what impact the world’s current energy use has on the environment. Students will discover how an understanding of mathematics can be used to solve real-world energy problems.