Science·Energy·conceptual
Renewable vs non-renewable energy
Distinguish between renewable energy resources (solar, wind, hydroelectric, tidal, geothermal, biomass) and non-renewable resources (coal, oil, gas, nuclear), comparing their advantages, disadvantages, and environmental impacts
Suggested ages 12–14
Evidence of understanding
- Lists at least four renewable and three non-renewable energy resources
- Explains what makes a resource renewable or non-renewable
- Compares the environmental impact of at least two different energy sources (e.g. wind vs coal)
- Discusses trade-offs between cost, reliability, and environmental impact in choosing energy resources
Assessment prompt
If Renewable vs non-renewable energy heard about a plan to build a new wind farm in your area, could they explain what the advantages and disadvantages would be compared to a gas-fired power station — both for the environment and for reliability?
Standards alignment
MS-ESS3-4US · ngss-ms
MS-ESS3-4
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Middle School
KS3.Sci.Phys.Energy.1GB · uk-nc-2013
Energy Stores and Systems
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · KS3