Global Energy Advisor

UCAR Center for Science Education

This interactive activity allows students to explore the costs (emissions) and benefits (energy production) of various energy sources Students can compare the environmental impacts of different energy sources.

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Notes from our reviewers

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Teachers might use this resource to help students investigate the pros and cons of different energy sources. For lower level grades, teachers may want to provide additional context about different energy sources. To scale this activity up, teachers might encourage students to think about what energy sources are available to them in their geographic location and try to meet the goals stated in the interactive component using those energy sources, or teachers might ask students to research the social factors influencing energy source decision making.
The simulation focuses on energy emissions and costs, allowing the learner to explore how different energy sources can impact supply and greenhouse gas emissions. There is a lot of information, instructions, and guides to help the students. The lesson was created by UCAR, a reputable source for good scientific education materials. Passed initial science review - expert science review pending.
This is a stand-alone resource that allows students to explore the cost/benefit impacts of a combination of energy sources. It is interactive and engaging. Instructions for how to use the interactive are found on the website Teachers using this resource would have to provide students with background and purpose. Teachers might consider creating a student worksheet that asks students to record their observations and ask further questions, or make it into a competition for who can produce the most energy with the least emissions to keep students engaged. Students should have some background or understanding of units of measurement for energy production and emissions
Students should have access to computers with the internet to use this resource. The interactive part is easy to use and includes instructions and data tables that students can reference for support. No prep time is required for the activity, but teachers should consider giving students background and a reason for using the simulation.