Introduction to Bioenergy – Bell Ringer
Summary
Three discussion-based bell ringers introduce students to bioenergy by connecting everyday energy choices to broader questions about biomass and biofuels. Questions build from familiar context (cooking fuels) to open-ended thinking about how plants and animal waste can generate energy. Works well as a lesson opener for a middle or high school energy unit.
Why do you think many people have switched from using wood fires to cook food every day, to the more modern gas or electric stoves?
Besides gathering wood for a fire, are there other ways we can use plants and animal waste for fuel to produce energy? Give at least one example.
What do you think of when you hear the word “biofuels”? What do we need in order to produce them?
