Compare Renewable Energy Sources

Deepen environmental literacy by analysing alternative energy solutions.

Teaching Context:
Great for Year 8 to Year 10 Science when studying energy and sustainability.

Basic AI Prompt:
List three renewable energy sources and explain how they work.

Enhanced AI Prompt:
You are learning about energy alternatives. Ask AI to explain how solar, wind, and hydroelectric power work. For each, describe the energy source, how energy is collected, and what challenges each faces (e.g. cost, weather dependence). Then, ask AI to create a table comparing the pros and cons of each source and suggest which would be best for your region based on climate and geography.

Spice it Up (Optional Extension):
Ask AI to write a mock speech convincing your local council to invest in renewables.

Lesson Implementation:
Start by discussing the need for clean energy. Show examples of energy production in Australia. Students use AI to build a comparison chart of three renewable sources, summarising efficiency, cost and environmental impact.

Students develop a presentation recommending one energy source for your local area, using AI-generated arguments supported by their own research.

Finish with a mock council meeting where students pitch their solutions and defend them against peer questions. This lesson builds scientific literacy and persuasive communication.

Got ideas on different ways to use this prompt? Share them with the class in the comments below!

Also, if you liked this, you'll love the thousands of subject-specific AI prompts in our books section!