Energy Science Projects and Activities
Here you'll find resources for science projects and activities-for science fairs, class or home-to help students in grades K-12 learn about energy, particularly energy efficiency and renewable energy.
K-12
The Atoms Family
Famous gothic horror characters present educational activities relating to different forms of energy, as well as energy conservation, for grades K-12. (Developed by the Miami Museum of Science)
Catching Sunshine
For grades 4-8, an activity to construct a solar collector, determining how to maximize the amount of sunshine it collects. (Developed by Online Science-athon)
Energy Quest: Science Projects
Science projects and energy activities for grades K-12. (Developed by the California Energy Commission.)
Fueling the Future
Features posters and activities to help students learn about alternative fuels, including alternative fuel vehicles. (Developed by the National Energy Foundation)
How to Build a Pizza Box Solar Oven
Provides information on the procedure and materials needed to build a solar oven. Adaptable for all grade levels. (Developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory)
KidWind Project
Features hands-on science projects and lesson plans to help kids learn about wind.
PicoTurbine
Features renewable energy projects and kits for grade 5 through adult. Do-it-yourself project plans can be downloaded for free.
Re-Energy
An online renewable energy project kit-featuring plans for building a wind turbine, a biogas generator, and more-for grades 7-12. (Developed by the Pembina Institute, Canada)
Science Fair Projects for Kids
Features several energy-related science fair projects for grades K-9. Also see its Energy Fair publication (PDF 288 KB) about how to plan a science fair project. (Developed by the National Energy Education Development Project) Download Adobe Reader.
Wind with Miller: Activities
Features wind activities and projects, including instructions for building a small wind turbine and making a wind sock. (Developed by the Danish Wind Industry Association)
Elementary
Adventures of Iggy Coloring Book
A coloring book that teaches younger elementary students about the use and benefits of geothermal heat pumps. Print copies can be ordered by calling 1-800-626-GSHP. (Developed by the International Ground Source Heat Pump Association)
Fun with the Sun
(PDF 545 KB) Download Adobe Reader
Energy activities for grades K-2, including those on energy conversion and conservation. (Developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory)
Grades 6-8
Blow Wind, Blow
A math activity that teaches students about wind, including wind energy.
Energy Transfer: An Internet Tutorial
An online tutorial, including activities, that teaches middle school students about energy transfer: radiation, convection, and conduction. (Developed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory)
Renewable Energy Activities-Choices for Tomorrow
(PDF 3.8 MB) Download Adobe Reader
Includes activities on solar energy, biomass, hydropower, and wind energy for students in grades 6-8. (Developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory)
Grades 6-12
Reversible Fuel Cell Kit
Demonstrates visually Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolysis of water, producing hydrogen and oxygen. (Developed by the National Fuel Cell Education Program)
High School
Discovering the Principle of the Fuel Cell at Home or at School
(PDF 225 KB) Download Adobe Reader
A high school science project for building a fuel cell. (Developed by Dr. Martin Schmidt, a physicist)
Solar Cooking Plans
Plans for high school students or adults for building a variety of solar cookers. (Developed by Solar Cookers International)
