Week of March 4, 2013

This week we have been discussing the benefits of using solar energy and modeling the usage of other energy sources using quadratic and exponential functions.  The driving question for this mini-project is: If the sun produces enough energy in one day to power the world for one year, then why aren't we taking advantage of this resource?  We are taking a look at the advantages and the issues that are standing in the way of everyone using it.  Over the weekend, students should be working on the extension project.  Please read the details below.  Students will have time in class on Monday to finish working and the final product is due Tuesday (3/12/13).  Presentations will be on Wednesday, so feel free to stop by and listen to what the kids have to say!

Unit 3 Project Extension: Solar Power and Me

Directions: Choose ONE project to complete.  Each option should meet the minimum length requirement and contain the appropriate tables and graphs to support your research.  All resources must be cited and submitted on a separate works cited page.

1. Review the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar America Communities website.  Make note of how solar energy is incorporated into the infrastructure of various cities nationwide.  Write an essay about how you would encourage solar energy use in your own town.  You may also create a PowerPoint to present to the Goldsboro City Council convincing them why they should invest in solar energy.  The essay must be at least 2 pages (12 point font, double spaced).  The PowerPoint must be at least 10 slides.  

2. Research solar energy use by other countries and regions.  Use a best-fit equation to predict the consumption of solar energy in Europe in 2013.  What about China?  Discuss why it would be important to know how much solar energy other countries use.  Your research paper must be at least 2 pages (12 point font, double spaced) or the PowerPoint must be at least 10 slides.

3. Write a formal letter to your local congressman outlining the advantages of using solar energy and convince them to vote YES on the proposed bills to invest in renewable energy research.  Your letter should be in the proper format and should be at least one full page.  If your letter is convincing enough, you will be encouraged to mail it to the local address of your Republican or Democratic representative.