Science of Biofuels – Bell Ringer

Summary

Use these Science of Biofuels Bell Ringers as an effective daily warm-up or a thought-provoking introduction to their renewable energy unit. This resource provides ready-to-use prompts that encourage students to reflect on how plants contribute to energy, both directly and indirectly, and to consider the definition and examples of biofuels. Easily integrate these bell ringers to activate prior knowledge, stimulate class discussions, and assess initial student understanding before diving into new material. It’s a versatile tool for gauging student engagement and setting the stage for deeper learning about the science and societal implications of biofuels, fostering critical thinking from the very start of the lesson.


Describe 2-3 ways that plants provide energy, both directly and indirectly.

A fuel is any material that is burned or used to produce energy. What do you think a biofuel is? Can you describe some examples?

Biofuels are made from living things like plants and algae. 

What do you think are some pros and cons of growing crops like corn or sugarcane for fuel?