The sum of the potential and kinetic energy that the hammer
needed to drive in the nail is called mechanical energy, which
resulted in the work being done. Again, it’s the mechanical energy
within moving water that allows us to use it to create power.
View an animated hydropower slide at http://energy.gov/eere/wa-
ter/how-hydropower-works
Watch a video about hydropower at http://energy.gov/eere/water/
hydropower-basics
Page 8: Knowledge is POWER!
Discussion ideas for ways to conserve energy:
*Set your home’s thermostat a few degrees lower for heat or
higher for cooling.
*Turn off lights and all electronics (like computers, televi-
sions, stereos, and video games) when you leave a room.
*Use the microwave instead of the oven for cooking your
meals.
*Use machines like washers, dryers, and dishwashers after
8 p.m.
*Open your blinds or curtains on sunny winter days to let the
sun shine into your home.
*Save hot water by taking short showers instead of baths.
*Seal leaky cracks around the house.
*Use compact florescent light bulbs (CFLs) instead of
incandescent bulbs.
*Don’t leave the refrigerator door open.
Rural Electric Cooperatives
“Power” is a mascot whose mission is to help members of
rural electric cooperatives use energy wisely. Rural electric
co-ops were formed in the 1930s to bring electricity to the
farms, ranches and smaller country communities of the U.S.
Today, 42 million Americans receive electricity from more
than 900 electric cooperatives – maybe you are one of them!
Learn more at http://www.nreca.coop/about-electric-coopera-
tives/co-op-facts-figures/
Additional Resources Sites:
www.alliantenergykids.com/FunandGames/CoolProjects/
www.eia.gov/kids/index.cfm
www.evergreenconservancy.org/environmental-education/
hydro-power/
www.dteenergy.com/kids/
http://fwee.org/nw-hydro-tours/walk-through-a-hydroelectric-
project/
www.blackhillscorp.com
www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=kids.kids_index
www.greenmountainenergy.com/
www.eschooltoday.com/energy/kinds-of-energy/what-is-
mechanical-energy.html
www.tvakids.com
www.mineralseducationcoalition.org
Page 8 REVIEW Answers
1. Which of the following energy resources is not
renewable:
r Natural gas
2. Giant wind turbines collect the wind’s energy of
motion. Energy of motion is known as:
r Kinetic energy
3. Mechanical energy is the sum of what two other
types of energy?
r Potential energy and kinetic energy
4. Geothermal energy works by using energy from:
r Earth
5. Nonrenewable energy sources are also called:
r Fossil fuels
6. A base load of energy is:
r The minimum amount of electricity delivered or re-
quired at a constant rate over a set period of time
7. Mining is important to both:
r Renewable and nonrenewable energy resources
Here are Common Core Math and ELA-Literacy
CCSS.Math.Content.4.NBT.B.4
Fluently add and subtract multi-digit whole numbers using the
standard algorithm.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.L.4
Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-
meaning words and phrases by using context clues, analyzing
meaningful word parts, and consulting general and specialized
reference materials, as appropriate.
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.L.6
Acquire and use accurately a range of general academic and
domain-specific words and phrases sufficient for reading,
writing, speaking, and listening at the college and career readi-
ness level; demonstrate independence in gathering vocabulary
knowledge when encountering an unknown term important to
comprehension or expression.
NALO (National Ag Literacy Outcomes)
Science, Grades 3-5
Plants and Animals for Food, Fiber & Energy Outcomes
· Distinguish between renewable and non-renewable resourc-
es used in the production of food, feed, fuel, fiber (fabric or
clothing) and shelter.