This set of lessons addresses the socio-scientific issue of sustainable fuels. Like most socio-scientific issues, there is no simple answer and even more complex solutions do not apply equally everywhere. Students address the complexity by first exploring the meaning of sustainability and how it applies to fuel production and use. Students then research the steps involved in producing multiple fuels or energy sources for vehicles including fossil fuels, biofuels, and electricity produced in a number of different ways. They explore the environmental impacts of each step with particular emphasis on carbon emissions. Students dig one step deeper as they examine data on the yields of different biofuel crops.
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Subjects
Agriculture
Biology
Chemistry
Earth Science
Economics
Engineering
Environmental Science
Physical Science
Physics
Social Studies
Topics
Carbon Cycle & Climate Change
Sustainable Energy Systems
Concepts/Skills
Energy, Fuels, Sustainability, Natural Resources, Data Analysis, Systems Thinking
Prior Knowledge
Familiarity with fuels and sustainability helpful but not required
Time Required
Five 50-minute class periods
Required Supplies
No extra supplies required