Clouds and Solar Radiation

Scientists need to have mastered algebraic slope-intercept concepts in order for this lesson plan to be effective. They will measure and graph solar panel output as a function of the amount of radiation striking it, discovering that...

Should every school have solar panels? The 19th lesson in a series of 21 has scholars research the feasibility of using solar panels at their school. They begin by gathering data on the solar energy in the area before estimating the...

Introduce your earth science enthusiasts to the earth's energy budget. Teach them using an informative set of slides that include illuminating lecturer's notes, relevant vocabulary, embedded animations, colorful satellite maps, and a...

Middle schoolers examine a variety of information for New York State including insolation data, and economic or political data, thus incorporating both science and social studies. Encouraging learners to become concerned citizens as they...

Drive the clouds away from your day with this video. It thoroughly details how photovoltaics work and how clouds prevent us from relying solely on solar as an energy source. Unique knitted-object animation (bunnies, clouds, and all other...

Seventh graders use NASA data to examine solar radiation and temperature of a location.  In this temperature comparison lesson students analyze data and examine patterns. 

Clouds make life on Earth possible by reflecting and scattering solar radiation, absorbing infrared energy, and spreading precipitation around the globe. NOVA describes the process of evaporation and transpiration that creates clouds...

Students determine areas that are the most likely to produce solar energy by using NASA data.  In this solar energy lesson students analyze plots and determine solar panel use. 

Students use data to find the best renewable energy potential.  In this solar energy instructional activity students import data into Excel and explain how solar energy is beneficial. 

How does the sun produce so much energy without blowing up? Viewers discover the delicate balance of inward and outward forces within the sun through a short video. The lesson includes discussion questions and is part of a larger sun...