B1.1
Understand the complex decisions behind energy sources.
ON – Grade 7 Science
Summary
This alignment guide connects Switch Classroom lessons to Ontario Grade 7 Science, especially Strand B: Life Systems and Strand E: Earth and Space Systems. It helps teachers connect environmental technologies, heat in the environment, and various energy sources to meaningful classroom instruction.
Students investigate how technologies affect the environment through lessons such as Introduction to Energy Choices and Introduction to Environmental Impacts, then deepen that work by comparing a wide range of energy resources including Coal, Solar, Wind, Biofuels, Oil, Hydropower, Geothermal, Nuclear, and Natural Gas. These lessons help students assess environmental, social, and economic impacts while thinking through energy tradeoffs. The guide also supports learning about heat transfer and energy-saving technologies with activities such as the Investigating Passive Solar Heating Lab, Thermal Transfer Investigative Lab, and Innovative Building Design Research Project.
Resources
Introduction to Environmental Impacts
B1.1
Watch the video and complete the data analysis activity on global CO2 emissions to understand the environmental consequences of different energy sources.
Investigating Passive Solar Heating Lab
E1.1
Experiment with efficient building design to see how different flooring materials absorb and retain heat.
Thermal Transfer Investigative Lab
E1.1
Evaluate how insulation impacts thermal energy loss in real-world scenarios.
Innovative Building Design Research Project
E1.1
Brainstorm and plan innovative building designs that balance human, environmental, and economic needs.
Energy Sources Activity Stations
E1.2
Visit the various stations to analyze the pros and cons of each energy source.
Developing Media Literacy - Mini-Unit
Introduce students to the fundamentals of media literacy through the lens of researching energy topics.