This activity demonstrates how solar energy is transformed into electricity that we can use. Students will use solar panels to power a small water pump and build a functioning fountain. In doing so, they will learn how a solar panel works, collect data and test variables, and apply their observations to their engineering process as they improve their designs. Get materials to help make Solar Fountains and more with KidWind’s Solar Imagination Kit.
The Details
Grades
3rd - 5th Grade
6th - 8th Grade
9th - 12th Grade
Time Required
1-2 class periods
Downloads
Materials
- Trays
- Plasticine
- Water pump
- Solar panel 3V 500mA (recommended size and power)
- Small tube 1/8″
- Medium tube 1/4″
- Large tube 3/8″
- Scissors
- Water
- Towel
- Lamp (or good sunlight)
- High wattage incandescent bulb (100 watts or higher)
- Compact fluorescent bulb (optional)
- LED bulb (optional)
- Ruler
- Protractor
- Color acetate sheets (optional)
- Alternative fountain building material such as plastic bottles, large basins for water, more plasticine, straws, etc.
Next Generation Science Standards
Cross-Cutting Concepts
- Cause & Effect
- Patterns
Disciplinary Core Ideas
- ETS1.A Defining & Delimiting Engineering Problems
- ETS1.B Developing Possible Solutions
- PS1.A Structure & Properties of Matter
- PS3.C Relationship Between Energy & Forces
Learning Objectives
- Know the fundamental aspects of a solar panel and understand how placement and orientation affect its power output
- Be able to use the scientific method to isolate and adjust variables in a solar powered fountain
- Understand power measurement and energy concepts, by using a small water pump
- Be able to use basic engineering, art, and design skills to create a one-of-a-kind solar fountain