In this lesson, students are introduced to the types of renewable energy resources. They are involved in activities to help them understand the transformation of energy (solar, water and wind) into electricity. Students explore the different roles of engineers working in renewable energy fields.

Objective
SWBAT explain the steps humans can take to protect the environment from water pollution.

Big Idea
In this lesson, students continue creating a big book on environmental issues. Today, they explore water pollution by researching the problem, causes, impact, and the steps humans can take help protect the environment.

Students are introduced to the engineering design process, focusing on the concept of brainstorming design alternatives. They learn that engineering is about designing creative ways to improve existing artifacts, technologies or processes, or developing new inventions that benefit society. Students come to realize that they can be engineers and use the design process themselves to create tomorrow's innovations.

Area: Earth Systems

This Fifth Grade unit is the FIRST in the curriculum of four (4) units developed to address the Fifth Grade science standards of the Michigan Science Standards related to Earth Systems.

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Objective
SWBAT describe the importance of decomposers in composting.

Big Idea
In this lesson, students will sort biodegradable and non-biodegradable materials. Then, teams of students will research the question, "What is composting?" and will make an idea web on a team poster.