Stage 1 - Desired Results

Established Goals: The students will be able to explain how their chosen energy source
produces energy. They will be able to synthesize the research on the energy source to create
a persuasive argument as to why that energy source is worth the US Department of Energys
investment. Students will be able to use technology tools to enhance their presentations.

Understandings: Essential Questions:
Students will understand that..
there is a need to find and invest in
environmentally friendly energy
sources
as global citizens, we have the
responsibility to conserve natural
resources
there are advantages and
drawbacks to each of the energy
sources
To what degree are we responsible
for preserving the planet for future
generation?
Do financial factors ever outweigh
environmental factors when
considering different sources of
energy?
How can we meet the worlds need
for energy in a responsible way?
Students will know
how the various energy sources
produce energy
the pros and cons of the various
energy sources
Students will be able to
create a persuasive presentation
use technology in a presentation
without distracting from the content
of the presentation
work cooperatively to achieve the
groups goals

Stage 2 - Assessment Evidence

Performance Tasks:
Using a technology tool, create a
presentation explaining how a
specific energy source works, and
the pros and cons of that energy
source.
In an organized and coherent
presentation, persuade your
audience that your chosen energy
source is worth the governments
investment.

Other Evidence:
Students will draw a diagram
explaining how their chosen energy
source produces energy
After all groups have presented,
students will answer a few short
answer questions about the various
energy sources

Stage 3 - Learning Activities
Using the provided resources, students will review how magnets produce electricity
and how electricity is generated in a power plant
As a class, discuss the above topics to assess students understand and clear up any
misconceptions
Review the rubrics with the students to ensure they know what is expected of them
(each student will be given a copy of the rubrics)
Using the provided resources, students will work in cooperative groups to research
their specific energy source using the rubric and the list on the tasks page to guide
their research
Students will create a presentation on their chosen energy source designed to
persuade their audience that the particular energy source is worth the governments
investment
Students will explore using a technology tool to assist in conveying their ideas without
focusing the audiences attention on the technology rather than the content of the
presentation
Students will present their research and arguments to their peers