Students study the causes of electricity shortage in California in 2000-2001. For this social studies lesson, students evaluate the effect of the deregulation process. They discuss the actions taken by the government to solve the crisis.

Students brainstorm a list of electrical devices used in their home. They read an article about electricity usage in a heat wave. In groups, they create public service announcements promoting energy conservation. They share their ideas...

Students reflect on the role of electrical energy in their daily lives. They consider ways in which they might prepare for a blackout. They examine role of energy deregulation in the August 2003 blackout. Finally, they present this...

Junior high and high school learners study infrastructure and its relationship to the current economy. They review handouts, watch a PBS clip, and review case studies in order to answer provided questions and role play over...