Vernier's New Investigating Wind Energy Lab Book Provides Inquiry-Based STEM Investigations for Elementary Students

BEAVERTON, Ore., Feb. 4, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Vernier Software & Technology's new Investigating Wind Energy lab book provides students in grades 4-6 with engaging, inquiry-based investigations that utilize the engineering design method. Written for and aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), the investigations encourage students to apply learned knowledge as they explore electric circuits and investigate blade design variables using a variety of materials and technologies using a variety of materials and technologies, including the KidWIND MINI Wind Turbine, the Vernier Energy Sensor, and more.

"Our new lab book provides students with multiple hands-on investigations that explore renewable energy science, as recommended by NGSS," said David Vernier, co-founder of Vernier and former physics teacher. "These types of inquiry-based investigations engage students in scientific discovery at an earlier age and provide the foundation needed as they progress through STEM instruction."

The lab book includes ten investigations and one culminating project where students design, test, and refine a wind turbine blade set that converts wind energy to electrical energy. The investigations are designed to help students explore quantitative current, potential difference, power, energy and more in an engaging, hands-on way.

The lab book includes a table showing the Disciplinary Core Ideas, Crosscutting Concepts, and Science and Engineering Practices covered in each investigation, making it easy to use with the EQuIP rubric from Achieve. Additionally, it includes information on related skills, estimated completion times for the investigations, equipment tips, teaching tips, answers, sample data, and graphs in the teacher information pages. An accompanying CD with editable Word files for all of the student pages allows teachers to adjust lessons to meet their needs.

To learn more about Investigating Wind Energy, visit http://www.vernier.com/products/books/elb-wind/.  

About Vernier Software & Technology

Vernier Software & Technology has been a leading innovator of scientific data-collection technology for 34 years. Focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), Vernier is dedicated to developing creative ways to teach and learn using hands-on science. Vernier creates easy-to-use and affordable science interfaces, sensors, and graphing/analysis software. With world-wide distribution to over 130 countries, Vernier data loggers are used by educators and students from elementary school to University. Vernier's technology-based solutions enhance STEM education, increase learning, build students' critical thinking skills, and support the science and engineering practices detailed in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). Vernier's business culture is grounded in Earth-friendly policies and practices, and the company provides a family-friendly workplace. For more information, visit http://www.vernier.com.

SOURCE Vernier Software & Technology

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