Sunshine and Science: Free Summer STEM Activities for Families

Sunshine and Science Volume 1

Summary

Family STEM Activities – Getting Started

Welcome to the Sunshine & Science: Volume 1!

We’re excited to spend the summer learning about energy with you. This is a fun collection of activities to expand STEM learning outside of the classroom.

What is Energy?

Electricity represents about 25% of our total energy use, and lighting accounts for about 20% of the electricity use in the U.S. Complete the hands-on Energy Around Us lab to help discover the hidden role of energy in everyday life. Then, keep up math skills during the summer and explore your home’s lighting and energy needs with the Home Electricity Audit.

Learn About Mining

Mining is required to produce the metals to make solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries, as well as to extract coal used for electricity production and various industrial processes in the U.S. Explore mines in your areas using the app Mine Locator Map (Apple or Google Play). This app shows the locations of many types of mines, past and present, as well as processing facilities. Then, try your hand at mining using the Coal Mining Simulation from the Introduction to Coal lesson.

Natural Gas & Biofuels

Many people don’t realize that all fossil fuels come from decaying plant and animal matter that has been buried under pressure and heat over long periods of time. This decaying material leads to the production of gases that can be used as fuels. Humans create biofuels by converting plants into liquids and gases. Practice scientific observation skills with the Exploring Natural Gas Lab from the Science of Natural Gas lesson.

The Science of Solar

On a hot and sunny summer day, learn about the power of the sun with the Science of Solar lesson. Here, you’ll explore how to harness the sun’s energy using photovoltaic solar panels. Additionally, as a hands-on project, use the Active and Passive Solar lab to build a solar oven and try cooking some food with it!

Learning About Wind

Build a windmill from various materials gathered from your home after getting an Introduction to Wind. Use a fan to generate the wind or test your design outside on a breezy day at various locations. Is there more wind by the front door or on the sidewalk? Does the amount of wind change throughout the day? Make a lab notebook and record your observations and data!

Wind as Energy

Strengthen your engineering skills by building an anemometer in the Wind Energy Lab Investigation from the Science of Wind. You’ll be able to see how engineers determine optimal turbine locations by applying scientific and engineering practices.

Thank You!

We’ve had an incredible summer of hands-on activities with Switch Classroom, a fantastic resource that brings energy education to life. As we look forward, we encourage all educators and parents to continue exploring the diverse and engaging content available on this free, nonpartisan, online platform. Switch Classroom not only enhances students’ understanding of energy concepts but also fosters critical thinking and a passion for learning. Let’s keep the momentum going and empower our students with the knowledge and skills they need for a sustainable future. Dive deeper into the resources, and together, let’s inspire the next generation of energy leaders!