Free, editable Google Slides deck for Science of Solar: reading, computation, data set, and lab, ready to project.
Science of Solar
Summary
A complete solar energy lesson packet covering how photovoltaic cells work, active and passive solar systems, energy storage, and real-world trade-offs. Students move through a video, vocabulary, readings, data analysis, math problems, a hands-on lab, and formative assessments across a full instructional sequence. Includes teacher guide and answer keys for every activity. Built for grades 6-12 in earth science, physical science, or physics.
Activities
Bell Ringer
Choose one of the Bell Ringers provided to display for students to answer.
Video
Play this short video on solar to spark curiosity and encourage thoughtful discussion.
Vocabulary + Quiz
Have students review the vocabulary terms, watch the video, and answer the questions in the quiz (Kahoot).
Reading
Have students read the info sheet on the Science of Solar and answer the comprehension questions.
Extended Reading
Have students read the extended info sheet on the Science of Solar and answer the comprehension and application questions.
Data Set
Have students analyze solar power generation data and answer questions. Review key terms, then discuss trends as a class.
Lab - Teacher Guide
Download this teacher guide to walk students through investigating how the angle of a solar panel affects solar energy output.
Lab - Student Guide
Use this handout with students to investigate how the angle of a solar panel affects solar energy output.
Teacher Guide
Download this teacher guide that serves as a walkthrough with answers for the Science of Solar lesson.
Answer Key
This short document provides answers to key activities in the Science of Solar lesson.
Downloadables