Alternative Energy Project

Due the week of May 19

During your double lab period

Purpose:

A central focus in politics and modern society is the development and use of alternative energy sources. It is not uncommon to watch the news and hear about the many problems associated with America’s dependence on oil and gasoline. This project is designed for you to gain insight into the details and realities of some of the major contenders competing to be America’s next primary fuel source.

This project is a group project requiring extensive research, data analysis and oral presentation. You will select teams of 3 or 4 students and an alternative energy source to research. Research will be focused to the areas of chemistry connections, statistics and efficiency, limitations and practicality. The ultimate objective of each team is to prove to the teacher and classmates that their assigned energy source is superior to the other options. Through visual aids and prepared dialogue the entire class will learn about some interesting potential solutions to the fossil fuel problem through a fun and engaging assignment.

PROJECT TOPICS:

GEOTHERMAL / ETHANOL / WIND
SOLAR / HYDROELECTRIC / HYDROGEN FUEL CELLS
NATURAL GAS / NUCLEAR

Project Components

RESEARCH PAPER

Your group must prepare a summary of your energy choice highlighting overview, how it works, science connections, key statistics, practicality and limitations. This summary research paper must be at least two full pages of text - 12-point font, 1-inch margins, typed and double spaced. The paper must also include a works cited page that lists all of the references used by the group for all parts of the project. You must have a minimum of 5 references listed, in MLA format At least 2 references must be something other than internet websites (i.e. book, magazine, or IMC database sources.)

BROCHURE

Your group must prepare adouble-sided tri-fold brochureto be presented to the class during your presentation. It should be eye-catching, and should creatively and informatively summarize your alternative energy and why it is the best. All text (including names of group members) must be typed, and the brochure must be printed in color. You only need one printed copy. It will be passed around so your classmates can see it, then handed in to me.

PRESENTATION

Your group must present your findings to the class. The presentation grade will be divided into two parts:

  1. Powerpoint Slides

Your group must create a powerpoint slide slow on your energy choice. It must contain a minimum of 10 slides, at least one slide (can be more than one) answering each of the following questions:

-What is the alternative energy source you are presenting? (title slide)

-How does it work?

-What are the connections to chemistry?

-Why are scientists so excited about it?

-How mainstream can this energy solution become?

- Is this energy solution currently being utilized anywhere?

-What are some realistic limitations that face this energy solution?

-Are there any powerful statistics related to the chemical, economic and ecological aspects of this energy solution?

-Why is our energy choice better for the future of our country/planet than other alternatives?

-What are the major facts and figures that cannot be ignored?

  1. Oral Presentation

Your group must present your slides to the class. You must be prepared with a script, meant to further explain (not repeat word-for-word) your powerpoint slides. All group members must take turns speaking. You will be graded on your public speaking techniques, including:

-Being prepared, with your script memorized, or written on note cards.

-Facing your audience.

-Making eye contact with your audience.

-Speaking loudly enough to be heard from the back of the room.

-Displaying knowledge of and enthusiasm for your subject.

-Holding the attention of your audience.

GRADING:

All team members will receive the same grade.

You must be ready to present during your double lab period.

Late Projects will not be accepted.

Research Paper / 25 points
Brochure / 25 points
Presentation:
Powerpoint Slides / 25 points
Oral Presentation / 25 points

Good Luck! As always, good projects require good research and teamwork!