Wind Energy in the Classroom

No Cost Wind Energy Inquiry InvestigationThis lesson was adapted from the Science Olympiad Wind Power competition. More information is available at http://www.soinc.org/wind_power_c.

Supplies:Discman-type CD playerCD’sLightweight cardboard Duct tape and/or masking tapeScissorsRing standBox fanMultimeter

Turbine Set-up http://

soinc.org/sites/default/files/uploaded_files/PhysicalScienceLabSetup.pdf

The Klentschy Inquiry Method1. Engaging Scenario2. Focus Question3. Prediction4. Procedure5. Data Collection6. Research7. Making Meaning

Conference8. Conclusions9. Reflections/Next

Steps/ New Questions

Lesson Ideas:Test turbines at high speed & low speed fan

settings.Test turbine for 30 seconds. Record the

highest reading.Compete for overall efficiency; power output

and overall mass.

Other Web Resources:Horizon Wind Energy http://www.horizonwind.com/

Wind Turbines in Benton County, Indiana http://

www.earlparkindiana.com/windfarm.html

Exploding Wind Turbine http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u14tBwO5QVQ