Quantum Physics for Kids: Solar Energy & Solar-Generated Electricity (Electromagnetism, Class 4)

Please Note: This class is now offered as part of the Quantum Physics for Kids "Electromagnetism 1" course, which includes the following topics:
Class 1, Magnetism & You
Class 2, Electricity with Magnets
Class 3, Photons & You
Class 4, Solar Energy & Solar-Generated Electricity
These 4 topics are also taught bundled together in the 4-week course called "Electromagnetism 1: Magnetism, Electricity, Photons and Solar Energy," linked below:
https://outschool.com/classes/electromagnetism-course-level-1-magnetism-electricity-photons-and-solar-power-6jCnSJ2x#us9fIT1FTd

The sun is our planet's greatest source of energy, and inventors have developed a wide range of ways to tap into this abundant energy source! First, we'll discuss inventions that utilize solar heat (thermal) energy, such as solar hot water heaters, solar cookers and passive solar homes. This type of solar energy has been used for centuries, and is relatively simple, yet still innovative and one of the easiest ways to utilize the sun's energy. The instructor will give a Solar Heat Energy presentation including an informational lecture, scientific illustrations, explanation of the science behind the way solar heat inventions work, guided questions, a short video and discussion. A printable handout of the major Solar Thermal uses will be provided upon enrollment. 

Next, we'll delve into the more complex topic of electricity generation utilizing photons. We'll first learn what photons are (radiated light energy), then we'll review atoms and the subatomic particles (protons, neutrons and electrons). This will lead into an investigation of the atom Silicon, which is a semiconductor and commonly used in modern photovoltaic solar cells. We'll discuss how scientists create layers of Silicon in a photovoltaic cell in a way that allows photons to energize electrons to create an electrical current flow. Lastly, we'll discuss the pros and cons of solar energy, and how inventors have addressed the challenges to widespread adoption of solar electricity. Teaching methods include a live demonstration of a working solar cell, informational lecture, scientific illustrations, explanation of the science behind the way solar photovoltaic cells work, guided questions, a short video and discussion. Learning activities will be varied to help keep students engaged and appeal to a wide range of learning styles. A printable handout showing the inner workings of a solar photovoltaic cell will be provided upon enrollment.