Introduction to Energy – Bell Ringer
Summary
Three bell ringer prompts that ease students into energy thinking before a formal lesson. Students trace direct energy use in their morning routine, compare the energy of making versus using a product, and map the life cycle of an everyday item. Works as a standalone warm-up or opener for any intro to energy unit across middle or high school.
Describe the steps you took this morning between waking up and eating lunch. Underline every part of your story that required direct energy.
Direct energy is the energy we use right away to make something happen.
What do you think takes more energy? Making one pair of jeans, or using a washing machine once? Explain your guess.
Reflect on the idea that every product you use, including clothes and food, requires energy from creation to disposal.
Can you list one item in your home and map out at least four energy-using steps in its life cycle?
