Convection currents aren't just a bunch of hot air. The second of five lessons in the Solar Updraft Towers unit focuses on energy transfer and convection currents. Young scientists watch six demonstrations that illustrate how warm air and water rise while cold air and water sink. They connect what they see to the concept of energy transfer.

Concepts

energy, renewable energy sources, water, air, heat energy, energy transfer, solar energy, convection currents, thermodynamics

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Instructional Ideas

• Have older learners conduct the activities on their own rather than as demonstrations
  

Classroom Considerations

• Lesson requires some materials, such as glass jars and solar bags; see the resource for the complete list
• Scholars should have basic familiarity with energy
  

Pros

• Includes handouts and worksheets for pupils to record their observations and ideas
• Provides a printable KWL chart
  

Cons

• None