Energy Resource Lesson 6 : Energy Conservation and Efficiency : Leaks and Lights

Energy conservation and energy efficiency are the focus of this lesson. Students learn how basic energy conservation and energy efficiency choices can save their family money, reduce energy consumption, and prevent energy-related pollution. Students learn how to identify and fix air leaks, compare incandescent and compact fluorescent light bulbs, and list ways they can conserve energy and increase energy efficiency in their daily lives. An extension lesson, “In the Driver’s Seat,” which focuses on transportation and fuel efficiency, is also provided on the MEECS Energy Resources CD.

Students answer these essential questions: 

What are the benefits of energy conservation and energy efficiency? 

What data and tools can you use to help you make better decisions about your energy and resource use and your personal actions?

Subject/Target Grade

Science and Social Studies/Middle School (7-9)

Duration

90 minutes – Classroom setting

Materials

per class

• pencil

• tissue paper or box of facial tissues

• tape

• scissors

• caulk tube(s)

• caulking gun

• cardboard

• plastic spoons

• rags

• overhead projector

• Energy Star (transparency master) 

• Sources of Air Leaks in a Typical Home (transparency master) 

• How to Caulk (teacher resource) 

• Incandescent vs. Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (transparency master) 

• Incandescent vs. Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs Advantages and Disadvantages (transparency master) 

• An Enlightening Investigation (answer key) 

• light meter or calculator light probe (optional)

• utility knife

• linear tape measure or yardstick (optional)

per small group

• calculators

• compact fluorescent light bulb

• incandescent light bulb

• standard light sockets, desk, or table lamps (2 per group)

• thermometers or calculator temperature probes (2 per group)

per student

• pencil

• tissue paper or facial tissue

• tape

• scissors

• rubber gloves

• goggles

• graph paper

• Energy Use of Some Typical Home Appliances (student resource) 

• Ways to Conserve Energy and Increase Energy Efficiency (student activity) 

• Identifying and Fixing Air Leaks (home activity) 

• An Enlightening Investigation (student activity)