Provided by: Paleontological Research Institution |Published on: April 27, 2021
Videos Grades 3-5, 6-8
Synopsis
This video provides a demonstration of how to build a simple wind-powered machine using a cup, pencil, string, tape, and piece of paper.
Students will learn that the wind has been used for hundreds of years to power machines and that it continues to be a valuable source of clean energy today.
This video introduces a fun, hands-on format for learning about wind energy that allows for student and teacher creativity.
Additional Prerequisites
This resource provides the written directions for this activity, which can be downloaded or printed.
A canned food item or paper cup can be used instead of a plastic cup and a rolled-up piece of paper will likely work better than a straw, as it is adjustable and it doesn't contribute to plastic pollution.
Differentiation
Cross-curricular connections could be made with art classes, as students can add their own unique designs, colors, or artwork to the elevators and windmills.
This video could be used as an introduction to an in-class project or could be watched in class and then assigned as an at-home project.
Related assignments might include asking students to provide a written or oral summary of the steps of this project after watching, drawing a diagram of the project to demonstrate understanding, or responding to written prompts about the value of wind energy after watching the video.
Other resources about renewable energy include this online course, this e-book by the Climate Reality Project, and this video by LabXchange.
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About the Partner Provider
Paleontological Research Institution
Paleontological Research Institution (PRI) is a national leader in Earth systems science education. They strive to help make sense of the present and potential future climate change, while also increasing understanding of global change in Earth’s past. Their programs focus on systems thinking, understanding scale and learning in your own backyard.
Related Teaching Resources
All resources can be used for your educational purposes with proper attribution to the content provider.