Let me get an angle on this! Investigate the orientation of a photovoltaic panel and its effect on efficiency. By using a light source, learners collect and plot current output to determine the ultimate orientation. The resource includes a performance assessment to design a photovoltaic system for the school.

Concepts

solar energy, solar panels, renewable energy sources, energy, technology resources

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Instructional Ideas

• Present the Design It! Post-Activity Assessment as a problem for the class to solve; let them determine what information is needed and how to gain that information
• Develop research teams and have individuals from each team to be responsible for different aspects of using a solar panel

Classroom Considerations

• Be sure the solar panels and the meters are working properly
• Based on the number of multimeters available, groups may need to be larger or the activity may need to stretch over several days
• Requires the purchase of materials if they are not already owned
• May be difficult to do outside with large classes

Pros

• Instead of being told, the investigation leads the class to determine the ultimate angle
• Protractor templates are included in the attachments

Cons

• None