8-10 yrs old
11-13 yrs old
Geography
Science
Technology
Introduce students to alternative energy sources by having them build homes that make use of renewable energy in different Minecraft biomes.
March 13, 2018
Resourcefulness STEM App
America's Best Places For Alternative Energy
Energy101 Video: Renewable Energy I: Introduction – Michael E. Webber, UT Austin
Energy101 Video: Renewable Energy II: Hydroelectric
Energy101 Video: Renewable Energy III: Wind Power
Energy101 Video: Renewable Energy IV: Solar
Energy101 Video: Renewable Energy V: Geothermal
Energy101 Video: Renewable Energy VI: Bioenergy
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
Minecraft World Files
Biomes and wind power example.
What are the differences between fossil fuels and renewable energy?
How much are we using renewable resources vs. fossil fuels?
What are the pros and cons and renewable energy sources?
Discuss hydroelectric power, such as that supplied by the Hoover Dam, as an example of renewable energy. For background information on hydroelectric power and other sources of renewable electricity technology, see the Water for Energy chapter of the Resourcefulness STEM App:
http://www.stem.guide
In groups, have students choose a type of renewable energy on which to focus their research.
Find a Minecraft biome similar to the selected climate ideal for the chosen renewable energy source and create a version of this type of power within Minecraft as well as home that makes use of this power.
https://minecraft.gamepedia.com/Biome
Use the starter worlds provided, create a new world and explore, or search online for a “Seed” world that matches your needs.
Examples:
Students should make use of the camera within Minecraft to take pictures of their build, then use these images to help illustrate a presentation on their groups’ chosen renewable energy type.
Students should be able to answer the following questions:
If possible, students will identify areas of their own country best suited to different types of renewable energy.
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Resourcefulness STEM curriculum developed and distributed by Disco Learning Media, authored by Dr. Michael E. Webber, and underwritten by Itron, Inc.
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