The Learning House~ Greenhouse

Solar energy is one of several technology based learning projects school-wide.  Our school was awarded a BP grant to study solar energy during the 2006-2007 school-year.  One of the means through which solar energy was taught was through the use of a greenhouse.  Students learned how plants use the Sun’s energy during photosynthesis to create food.   They also learned about the other conditions that plants need in order to survive and grow.  Finally, students discovered how a greenhouse can provide these optimal growing conditions for plants in an area that may normally be suitable for plant growth.  Conceptual learning took place through a variety of activities including scientific study, data collecting, journaling and nonfiction reading material.  The hands-on learning occurred as students grew plants and maintained the greenhouse.

This boy and girl are successful in their attempt to make light using a solar panel too!

Mrs. Mahoney explains how to make a solar oven out of a pizza box.

These students are busy taping aluminum foil to their solar oven.

These students place black paper on the bottom of the oven to ensure the oven will retain heat.