Hillcrest HS Science Students Learn First Hand How Energy Works

Integrated Physics teachers Mr. Jacob Mooney and Mrs. Julie Kirk were using the sun’s heat to physically show their students how energy works. “I was so excited to be outside with my students on such a beautiful fall day. Without the sun, our lesson plans would have had to have been altered,” said Mrs. Kirk.

By using aluminum foil, pizza boxes, plastic wrap, glue, and tape, the students were able to see firsthand how energy is transferred from one form to another. Students gathered quantitative and qualitative data throughout the experiment to support or disprove their hypothesis on how different factors can affect the amount of energy transferred. As a culminating event and sweet treat, the students used the solar ovens to reflect and convert the sun’s light energy into to heat that melted chocolate and marshmallows for the students’ s’mores. This lab provides a hands-on experience that allows students to experience data collection and analysis while creating a greater level of engagement and excitement for science.