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Environmental Science

Can you finish renewable energy spin-off in about 30 min?

Renewable Energy Spin-Off

You will this activity teaches children how wind energy is harnessed by demonstrating turbine mechanics.

Duration30 min
Age GroupAges 9–10
DifficultyIntermediate
SubjectEnvironmental Science
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Concept

What this lesson teaches

This activity teaches children how wind energy is harnessed by demonstrating turbine mechanics. By building and spinning their own model, they visualize energy conversion from wind to motion, deepening their understanding of renewable resources.

Materials

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    Steps

    How the activity runs

      Why It Works

      The learning connection

      Constructing a physical model engages children through embodied cognition, allowing them to connect abstract concepts of energy transformation to tangible experiences. As they see their turbine spin, they grasp the practical application of renewable energy in a delightful, interactive way.

      Extend the Lesson

      Try it with your learner

      1. Gather 1 plastic bottle, 1 paper cup, 2 straws, and scissors. 2. Cut the bottle near the bottom to create a base. 3. Poke a hole through the bottom of the cup and one straw, and insert the straw into the cup. 4. Secure the straw with tape; this is your turbine blade. 5. Attach the straw through the bottle base to allow it to spin freely. 6. Take your model outside on a windy day and watch it spin!

      Environmental Science30 minAges 9–10Grade 4Sign in to save this activity
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