On Tuesday and Wednesday, year 6 students visited Toohey Forest Environmental Education Centre and participated in the Energy Futures program.  

Australia’s Energy Future focussed on one of the biggest challenges facing humans over the next 50 years – energy. The program commenced with students testing their current understanding in relation to energy use in the home and how Australia generates its electricity needs. 

Students rotated through three different energy focused activities:

1. The Green Energy Lab, a purpose-built educational resource, that showcased a variety of renewable energies including hydro, wind and solar. Energy transformations occurring in these electricity generation methods were given particular emphasis. Using energy data loggers (PowerMates), students made and tested predictions of energy consumption of a number of appliances.

2. Students conducted an investigation involving the design, construction and testing of a model wind turbine. Students measured the power produced and, in doing so, identify variables affecting the performance of the turbine.

3. Students discovered the concepts of conductivity and insulation, by designing, constructing and testing series and parallel circuits that composed of electrical components including light bulbs, switches, batteries, buzzers and resistors. With all this knowledge, students were tasked with evaluating a range of renewable energy sources and recommending the best options for Australia’s Energy Future.

This learning is linked to the Australian Curriculum through the physical science achievement standard as well as our whole school conceptual focus of sustainability.

The year 6 students are to be commended on their willing engagement, clever thinking, and excellent behaviour. A great day of science!