During the 1970’s, interest in different energy alternatives surfaced in this country. Obviously, this increase in public awareness was mainly due to our problems with foreign oil. Energy alternatives, like gas, coal, solar, wind, and nuclear, have been researched and each of their advantages and disadvantages have been examined and scrutinized.
The energy alternative that is the subject of this unit is probably the most controversial, nuclear energy. One reason I chose this topic is because of the ignorances and fears of many people regarding nuclear energy. My students are the adults of tomorrow and should be given the facts on this energy source, its past record and what the possibilities and changes are for the future.
The unit covers 4 to 6 weeks and is planned for use in a 9th grade Physical Science course. The unit is divided into the following sections:
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I.
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What is nuclear energy and what makes up a nuclear power plant.
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II.
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Advantages and disadvantages of nuclear energy.
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(a) safety
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(b) radiation
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(c) the environment
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(d) waste disposal
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(e) economics
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III.
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The Three Mile Island incident—research and discussion.
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IV.
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Connecticut Nuclear Power Plants
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The unit will consist not only of the relaying of facts to the students, but will also involve the reading and research by the students with follow-up discussions.
