Lesson Plan

• Describe the key criteria (energy density, cost, environmental impact, efficiency, control, safety) used to compare energy sources.
• Analyse the advantages and disadvantages of at least three major energy sources for a given design brief.
• Apply the comparison criteria to select and justify an appropriate energy source for a product design.

• Projector or interactive whiteboard
• Printed comparison‑table handouts
• Calculator or spreadsheet software
• Sample product design brief (e.g., portable charger, small wind turbine)
• Whiteboard markers and sticky notes

Begin with a rapid poll asking students to name the energy source they think powers most everyday gadgets. Link their responses to prior knowledge of fossil, nuclear and renewable sources, then outline today’s success criteria: compare sources using defined criteria and justify a design choice.

1. Starter – Quick quiz (5') on common energy sources and their typical uses.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Review the comparison criteria (density, cost, CO₂, efficiency, control, safety) with examples from the table.
3. Group analysis (15') – In small groups, examine the provided table and fill a pros/cons sheet for three chosen sources.
4. Whole‑class debrief (10') – Each group shares findings; teacher highlights links to design considerations.
5. Design brief task (15') – Groups receive a product brief and select the most suitable energy source, recording justification using the criteria.
6. Peer review & exit ticket (5') – Students exchange briefs, give one‑sentence feedback, and submit a written justification as the exit ticket.

Summarise how the chosen criteria balance performance, cost and sustainability. Collect exit tickets to gauge each student’s ability to justify a selection. Assign homework: research a real‑world product and write a brief report on the energy source it uses and why it was chosen.