Community Wind Project

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In this thought-provoking activity, learners plan a hypothetical project to build and operate wind turbines in their community. Learners research such topics as available wind source, cost, noise, environmental impact, and local electric power needs, and incorporate their research into their plans. Learners also role play a town hall meeting about the wind project, portraying such community members as an environmental activist, a state legislator, a real estate developer, etc.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
2 to 4 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
free per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Simulation
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • access to internet and/or research materials
  • local news articles related to windpower
  • local zoning information

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Processes
      • Weather and Climate
    • Earth Structure
      • Atmosphere
  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Environmental Engineering
    • Technology
  • Physical Sciences
    • Energy
  • Life Sciences
    • Ecology
      • Human Impact
  • The Nature of Science
    • Science and Society
      • Risks and Benefits
      • Public Policy
    • The Scientific Process
      • Asking Questions
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations
      • Communicating Results
    • Science as a Career
  • The Nature of Technology
    • Technology and Society
      • Impacts of Technology
      • Technology and the Environment
    • The Design Process
      • Research and Development

Informal Categories

  • Nature and Environment

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • read
  • hear
  • use keyboard
  • use mouse

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Uses STEM to solve real-world problems
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, University of Illinois, 2009

Funding Source:

  • 3M Foundation