Energy Demand and Scale – Bell Ringer
Summary
Three discussion prompts to choose from that get students thinking about electricity demand, grid stability, and the pace of energy transitions before a lesson begins. Each prompt pairs a real-world scenario with a photograph to anchor the concept. Works for high school Earth and Environmental Science, APES, or any introductory energy unit.
What might happen to the city’s power grid if demand for electricity spiked instantly because everyone turned on their air conditioners at once?
What hours of the day do you think electricity demand is the highest in your city or town? Explain your reasoning.
Energy systems can take decades to change.
Brainstorm: What are some reasons it’s difficult to switch to new technologies quickly? Give an example.
