Geothermal Energy Curriculum

Summary:

Students examine how geothermal energy provides sustainable solutions for human needs, and what factors affect how it is accessed and applied.

Learning Objectives:

Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Define geothermal energy, and identify its source within Earth’s structure.

2. Describe how geothermal energy is harnessed and utilized.

3. Discuss the practical applications of geothermal energy.

Standards:

NGSS Performance Expectations:

HS-ESS2-3

CEWD ENR Content Standards (Secondary):

CE.01.03.01.b

RE.01.03.01.a

RE.01.03.01.b

Indiana NLPS Competency Domains:

5229.D4.1

5229.D4.2

5229.D4.5

5229.D9.3

5229.D9.4

Summary:

Students explore how geothermal energy powers both engineered systems and natural phenomena, and what makes it a practical option for heating, cooling, and sustainability.

Lesson Objectives:

Instruction in this lesson should result in students achieving the following objectives:

1. Describe how a geothermal system operates to heat and cool a residence.

2. Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of using geothermal energy in residential and commercial settings.

3. Identify and explain natural phenomena that illustrate geothermal activity.

Standards:

NGSS Performance Expectations:

HS-ESS2-3

CEWD ENR Content Standards (Secondary):

CE.01.02.01.b

CE.01.03.01.a

RE.01.03.02.b

Indiana NLPS Competency Domains:

5229.D4.3

5229.D4.4

5229.D4.6

5229.D7.3

5229.D9.2