Lesson 8: Light Bulbs and Energy Efficiency

Overview

Students begin to develop an understanding of energy efficiency and the importance of energy conservation by comparing different light bulbs. By comparing the amount of energy, heat, bulb life, and light output each bulb delivers, students learn that some bulbs provide the same light output using less electrical energy. The lesson culminates with a discussion about the broader impact of using energy wisely.

Key Ideas

Lesson Goals

Students will: 

Lesson Resources

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Download lesson plans (14 pages, 448 KB)

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Download Student Handout 8.1: Comparing Light Bulbs (184 KB)

Online Extensions

Heat Produced from Light Bulbs
Discover how changing the wattage of a light bulb can change the temperature by trying this science project.

Edutopia article; "Truth and Consequences: Teaching Global Warming Doesn't Have to Spell 'Doom'"

Review the recommendations for safe handling of CFL's.

Use Energy Star's "Choose a Light" interactive guide to learn more about how to make the right lighting decisions for the task at hand.

Connection to Maine Agencies

MEEP (Maine Energy Education Program) has several activities related to this lesson and will come to interested schools free of charge: 

For schools in Aroostook County, a Maine Public Service (MPS) representative will come to interested schools, free of charge, to guide and support concepts developed in this lesson.

 

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