We shared last week our story about Aaron’s school -A group of fourth graders in Durham, North Carolina, who use solar energy to power their classrooms.
LEARN SOLAR BASICS
Before Aaron’s students can launch their solar projects, they must develop an understanding of how solar panels function. Check out the Energy 101 solar PV video for a thorough explanation of how solar panels turn sunlight into energy. Watch Aaron’s class explain the solar system they use in a video. Functions.
Once you have mastered the basics, it is time to branch out and explore the many applications of this constantly evolving technology. Go to the basic solar page to get a complete outline.
START EXPERIMENTING
Learn about solar energy by launching your solar energy project. To experience the awe-inspiring power of the sun, make the solar oven. These tiny devices make use of the direct sun to prepare food as well as heat water. There are a variety of solar ovens you can choose from. Start by following our step-by-step instructions for making an outdoor solar oven with pizza boxes and this guide on solar cookers created by a class of fifth graders at the school in Dublin, Ohio.
STAY INSPIRED
Find inspiration and ideas for your solar-powered pursuits by keeping track of the progress made by those from the U.S. Department of Energy’s teams for the Solar Decathlon. The award-winning contest challenges students at universities to create solar-powered homes. Go to solardecathlon.gov for photos, videos, and updates from all the teams competing.
After exploring these solar energy-related activities, Take it one step further and check out our energy-related projects to teach your children about this summer.