Using Heat from the Sun

Students discuss where energy comes from, including sources such as fossil fuels, nuclear and renewable technologies such as solar energy. After this initial exploration, students investigate the three main types of heat transfer: convection, conduction and radiation. Students learn how properties describe the ways different materials behave, for instance whether they are insulators or conductors. Students complete a crossword puzzle to reinforce their vocabulary in this content area. This prepares the class focuses on the acquisition and storage of energy through the design, construction and testing of a fully functional solar oven (the associated activity).