October 20, 2023 •Sandra Cipriani, Manager of Curriculum Development
I can’t think of a better class to be in when the air is crisp, the days grow shorter and the bumps in the night become myths to debunk. In the science classroom, activities investigating the unknown rise to a new level of excitement in October. With the bonus of October being named the National Clean Energy Action Month, why not sprinkle some Halloween magic into energy-saving classroom activities?
Several studies have shown that energy knowledge in the U.S. is alarmingly low, especially among middle and high school students. In a study that included a written questionnaire completed by secondary students in New York State, only 42% of the students demonstrated energy knowledge. However, 73% of the students indicated a concern for energy problems. Since energy awareness mostly develops during childhood, integrating engaging activities in the classroom will be critical to improving energy literacy.
Although energy conservation may not be the most sinister of topics for October, keep reading for some activities that might change your mind! Your monsters, ahem, students, will become energy conservation wizards in a bat of an eye!
Wicked Word Search
How familiar are your students with energy conservation vocabulary? Engage them with a Wicked Word Search to build their vocabulary skills!
Energy vampire or energy vampire slayer?
How good are your students with energy conservation at home? Students can complete the activity independently or ask classmates to determine who are the energy vampires (wasting energy) and who are the energy vampire slayers (conserving energy)!
WANTED POSTER: ENERGY VAMPIRES
Now that your students are full-fledged vampire slayers, their first task is to create a Wanted Poster! They can work independently or in groups to create an informational poster to share their knowledge about how to reduce energy vampires at home.
Pumpkin Carving Patterns and costume design
Although you may not be inclined to turn your classroom into a pumpkin patch, you can create pumpkin carving patterns that promote energy conservation! Discuss familiar energy conservation symbols with your students and create pumpkin carving patterns. If you’re feeling really inspired, an energy conservation costume would make your students howl!
Crossword in a Cauldron
Need another thought-provoking activity for your cauldron of tricks? Check out this cauldron inspired crossword to reinforce energy conservation vocabulary knowledge by having students research definitions and complete the crossword.
Need more ideas? Check out these helpful links!
- Energyween (Department of Energy), has a cauldron full of activities.
- Project Learning Tree’s activities focus on using natural and recycled materials.
- Vanderbilt University has a short article about energy vampires. Create a list of questions or have students create their own!
- Because Learning! compiled the Halloweeniest list of STEM lessons that are aligned to NGSS and teach about topics like energy conversion, chemical bonds, electricity and much more!
Still haven’t enrolled in one of our utility sponsored energy efficiency programs for your classroom? Now is the time!
