Intended End User: Teacher, Teacher Educator
Age Group: Lower Secondary; Upper Secondary
School Curriculum: Science; Social & Environment Science; Applied Science
Themes and Topics: Energy Use and Production; Environmental Change; Futures Thinking; Food and Agriculture; Information & Knowledge
Duration: 6-10 days
Type of Resource: Demonstration, Experiment, Guidelines & Notes, Audio/Video, Lesson Plans, Project, Workshop
Keywords: Solar Tracker; Photoresistorsς; Arduino; Solar Energy, Inquiry-Based Learning
Languages: English
Description
This Build and Test a Sun-Tracking Solar Panel resource offers a comprehensive guide for educators and students to design and construct a solar tracker system. Utilizing photoresistors and a servo motor, the project enables learners to understand the principles of solar energy and the importance of tracking the sun to optimize energy production. The resource includes detailed instructions, diagrams, and considerations for measuring the performance of the tracker. By engaging in this hands-on project, students gain practical experience in applied science, engineering, and renewable energy technologies, fostering skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaborative work. This aligns with the goals of promoting scientific literacy and sustainability citizenship, encouraging students to explore innovative solutions to environmental challenges. The project also provides opportunities to discuss the broader implications of renewable energy technologies in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices.
How to use this resource
Introduction: Begin with a class discussion on solar energy and the importance of tracking the sun to maximize energy efficiency.
Design Phase: Guide students through the design process of the solar tracker, emphasizing the role of photoresistors and servo motors.
Construction: Assist students in building the solar tracker system, ensuring safety protocols are followed.
Testing: Have students test the tracker under various conditions, measuring its performance and efficiency.
Analysis: Encourage students to analyze the data collected, discussing factors that affect the tracker’s performance.
Reflection: Facilitate a discussion on the broader applications of solar tracking systems and their impact on renewable energy production.
The resources
Build and Test a Sun-Tracking Solar Panel:
The resource can be found here:
Learning Outcomes
- Elicit prior knowledge and further develop knowledge and comprehension of key Sustainability Citizenship key concepts, challenging established worldviews and values.
- Reflect on practice and examine national curricula to identify opportunities to promote Sustainability Citizenship in interdisciplinary ways and engage with external stakeholders.
- Develop and apply assessment criteria to evaluate Sustainability Citizenship in students.
Green Competencies
- Embodying Sustainable Values: Valuing Sustainability; Promoting Nature
- Embracing Complexity in Sustainability: Systems Thinking
- Envisioning Sustainable Futures: Futures Literacy
Creative Commons
This project is adapted from Science Buddies’ ‘Build and Test a Sun-Tracking Solar Panel’ guide, available at https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project-ideas/Energy_p045/energy-power/solar-tracker.
The Build and Test a Sun-Tracking Solar Panel guide was developed and hosted by Science Buddies. The original hosting site can be found here. The resource is shared on the Synapses Portal is compliance with the Science Buddies Terms and Conditions of Fair Use.
SDGs
