What is Nuclear Power?

Overview

In this lesson learners will be guided through a lesson on nuclear energy and how nuclear powerplants works. The lesson is followed up with an activity on building atoms using information from the periodic table of elements.

NB Curricular Connections

Science 3-5

• Strand: Learning and Living Sustainably – Big Idea: Responsible and Sustainable Application – Skill Descriptor: Apply scientific knowledge and an understanding of sustainable practices responsibly with respect to the natural world.

What You’ll Need

• Download “3-5 – What is Nuclear Power” Powerpoint.
• Downlaod and print the worksheets. Each work sheet is designed to be different but teaches the same skills.
• Three different small colored circle stickers, crayons or colored pencils will work as well.

Instructions

1. Open the PowerPoint and go through the initial discussion questions
2. Play the video Nuclear Science for Kids Science for Kids (embedded in the PowerPoint)
3. Show the animation of a nuclear powerplants working (embedded in the Powerpoint)
4. If you would like a copy of the picture book “Nuclear Power: How a Nuclear Powerplant Really Works!” please contact the lead for the Centre of Excellence for Energy
5. Go through the promotes showing students how to build their own atoms, this video may be helpful for your own understanding.
6. Distribute the Atom Building Worksheets – students use colored dots as protons, neutrons, and electrons

Extension Ideas

• Consider exploring the pros and cons of nuclear energy to make this a more cross curricular lesson. This activity should be helpful.
• Check out the Kids Nuclear Activity Book for some quick activities.

Reflection Activity

Please see the attached

Acknowledgments

This activity was created consulting staff from NB Power