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.
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 an Engineering Problem
- 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