Chapter 5
The Past, Present, and Future of Energy
Goals
- Describe how the electrical infrastructure of the U.S. initially developed.
- Identify the main reason AC power became more prevalent than DC power.
- List ways that DC power is used now.
CTE Energy & Natural Resources Career Subcluster
This subchapter does not explicitly map to the Energy & Natural Resources career cluster, though it contributes to foundational understanding.
Goals
- Define public utility, monopoly, and natural monopoly.
- List reasons why energy companies are often natural monopolies.
- Describe the Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935.
CTE Energy & Natural Resources Career Subcluster
This subchapter does not explicitly map to the Energy & Natural Resources career cluster, though it contributes to foundational understanding.
Activities
Industry Engagement Activity
This activity connects local K-12 educators with industry professionals to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world career demands.
60-90 min.
Varies
Goals
- List some of the major electrical appliances and devices in a modern home and compare how much electricity they consume.
- Describe the Rural Electrification Act and how it impacted Americans in rural areas.
- Discuss how electrification can help limit the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere from electricity generation and use.
CTE Energy & Natural Resources Career Subcluster
Utilities
Activities
NEED Energy Sources
Free downloadable curricula and infobooks on energy sources. These resources cover all grade levels.
Varies
Free
What is the Cost of Inefficiency?
Students will learn about the concepts of work, power, and energy and how they translate to energy efficiency and cost savings.
160 min.
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