The Global Energy Challenge, a 21st Century Students Guide to Ethical Energy Usage

Robin Mitchell, Science, Randolph Middle School

Final Unit (PDF)  Implementing Common Core Standards (PDF)

Synopsis

This is a cross-curricular unit developed to facilitate a conversation on ethical energy usage in the 21st Century. The unit could be taught to 6-8 grade students in either science or social studies. Three countries will become the primary focus of the investigation. The students will use the United States, China, and India for research purposes. Students will establish background knowledge on each country’s primary religion or ethical system, immigration trends, current energy usage, and future trends. Students will use their knowledge of the five themes of geography and eight factors of civilization to determine patterns and possible future energy needs and allocations. Students will look at various energy sources and then use scientific data to make recommendations for moral energy usage by creating a code of ethics incorporating themes from both social studies and science. The goal or objective of this unit is to help students understand the challenges ahead and to empower them to make a difference in the world.