solar unit extensions

Extension the Activities-

*This page will be updated as new possibilities come up...or suggestions are sent via e-mail.

Health:In the 'resources' page are a very large number of activities that extend the science of solar energy, light, and color. The Health connections of ultraviolet light and skin protection is quite useful and both fun and easy to explore. Also, eye protection with true polarized lenses enhances their understanding of how light works, and builds on science in health.

polarized light, and a colorful sugar water experiment
http://www.exploratorium.edu/snacks/rotating_light.html

Math & Measurement: The vocabulary and practice with angles and basic geometric shapes can be explored during the unit, or the activities of Reflection, and prisms can be referred to and reviewed as well-know examples in later math units..... for example, in 'word problems'. Metric meaurement and conversions are important(2D measures of angles, focal length, and in oven construction) as well as use of different scales in temperature.Scaling up the heat collecting surfaces...... does it get hotter? Great question and can be done as outside of class activity, or do the math and make a couple of models (including curved or parabolic reflectors) to see.

Social Studies- The Solarcooking.org website, and others in the resource section clearly show that solar ovens are important in a variety of countries where fuel has been wood, dung, or not available. Pictures of Ethiopian women unfolding simple/effective ovens to cook the food, and boil water for their families are powerful. Geography, both physical (where and when is solar collection most effective?) and political (how can solar and other energy sources change political dynamics?) can become a theme for the year.

Art:The sky is the limit here. The art in the science of light & color is very rich. Also, developing the ability to see and make 3D models on paper is quite useful for many applications.... English learners who can draw and label are able to represent their thinking at a much higher level than just their language skills allow.