Introduction to Energy Efficiency – Energy Efficiency and Trade-Offs – Student

Summary

Introduction to Energy Efficiency Hands-On Activity: Home Energy Design Challenge

In this hands-on Introduction to Energy Efficiency activity, students apply efficiency concepts through modeling, appliance comparison, and a home energy design challenge. Students first experience efficiency as smarter design through a physical paper fan activity that demonstrates how improved structure can increase effectiveness without increasing effort.

Students then compare real household appliances using annual energy use and cost data before designing a home system that stays within a defined budget and energy limit. They must justify their decisions based on trade-offs between efficiency, comfort, and cost.

This activity reinforces that energy efficiency is about informed decision-making rather than simply using less energy. Students evaluate which upgrades save the most energy for the money and identify where trade-offs are unavoidable.

This activity is central to the Introduction to Energy Efficiency lesson, supported by vocabulary development, data analysis, and answer keys.