How do we evaluate if a fuel is better for the environment?

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How do we evaluate if a fuel is better for the environment?

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Sensemaking is actively trying to figure out how the world works (science) or how to design solutions to problems (engineering). Students do science and engineering through the science and engineering practices. Engaging in these practices necessitates that students be part of a learning community to be able to share ideas, evaluate competing ideas, give and receive critique, and reach consensus. Whether this community of learners is made up of classmates or family members, students and adults build and refine science and engineering knowledge together.

Lesson Snapshot

Middle school students, as scientists and engineers, evaluate and compare fuels, including alternative ethanol-based fuel, E15, used by NASCAR. Students work together to answer the driving question: How do we evaluate if a fuel is better for the environment? Students develop a model.

Click the Download PDF button above for the complete Lesson Plan.

Materials

Student Materials

Per Student

paper/science notebook
Biofuel handout 1
Biofuel handout 2
highlighter

Per Small Group (2 to 4 students)

Biofuel handout 3

Teacher Materials

NASCAR: NASCAR, Growth Energy celebrate 20 million miles driven on renewable fuel
Adhesive notes and chart paper to create a driving question board.
Chart paper for class discussion about fuel data

Optional Teacher Resources

None