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A Mighty Wind Across America. A STEM-based cross-country, collaborative project that challenges students to design and construct an efficient wind turbine. Did you know….
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A Mighty Wind Across America A STEM-based cross-country, collaborative project that challenges students to design and construct an efficient wind turbine.
Did you know… • According to the Department of Energy, by 2020 the US must have at least 6% of it's electrical energy from wind power, and 20% wind energy by 2030. • Minnesota wind farms power 700,000 homes (AWEA.org). • NJ wind farms power approximately 2,000 homes (AWEA.org).
Wind Turbine Basics • The blades of a wind turbine catch the wind and turn, which rotates a shaft connected to a generator. When the generator turns, electricity is produced.
Research & Investigation • Visit the following National Geographic website to learn background information on wind power: http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/global-warming/wind-power-profile/ • Learn about the smart grid here: http://ge.ecomagination.com/smartgrid/#/alternative_energy • Play with the “Wow Windmills!” virtual labs: http://siemens.discoveryeducation.com/middle-school/resources/virtual-labs/
Introduction to Design Challenge • Read page 1 of the design challenge. • Complete the Pre-Assessment and hand it in. • We will visit the library over the next 2 days to learn more about wind power. • Teams will be boy-girl, 2-3 students per team. • Clients will be assigned to teams randomly. • We will email MHS students this week with questions and Skype next Friday.
Final Notes… • All the information and resources you need are in your packet! • Remember to be clear communicators with your MHS clients. Ask relevant questions and provide as much detail as possible when being asked something.