A BRIGHT IDEA Comparing incandescent and compact flourescent light bulbs IntroductionTaskProcessEvaluationConclusionCredits

INTRODUCTION Do you think all light bulbs are created equal? Think again. More than 125 years ago, inventors like Thomas Edison introduced the first light bulbs. Although they produce mostly heat, they were a safer and cheaper alternative to the gas and oil lamps that were being used at the time. Flourescent bulbs use less energy to create light, but are expensive and contain a dangerous substance called mercury. Some people think we need to make a switch, but not everyone thinks it’s a bright idea…What do you think?

PERFORMANCE TASK Your task will be to research and analyze two light bulb types, incandescent and compact flourescent. Learn all you can about their energy efficiency, cost, and any potential problems. Draw your own conclusion to the following question. – What type of light bulb is the brightest idea? Remember that there is no right or wrong answer. This is a controversial and complex issue. You will be graded on how your support your conclusion, communicate effectively, and work with your peers. Your final project will be a letter of persuasion written to a major electric company asking them to produce only your light bulb choice. Be persuasive and back up your argument with the information you find throughout your quest.

PROCESS You will be working together in a small group of 2-3 students. As an individual member of your group, you will be called on to explore several web pages. You will be the expert, and your group will be counting on you to provide a clear explanation of your portion of the information. As a group, your job will be to: Consider the energy usage in our country Identify the two types of light bulbs Explain the benefits and draw backs of each in a Ben Franklin’s T Write a summary of your findings to share with your group Click on the light bulbs to begin your investigation!

EVALUATION Click on the light bulb to view and print a rubric for this webquest

CONCLUSION A group of environmentalists, which includes the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy and light bulb companies from the U.S., Europe, and Australia, hope that the traditional incandescent light bulbs will stop being sold by They say making a switch to CFL’s will both lower electric bills and reduce air pollution. Not everyone agrees with the plan to do away with traditional light bulbs. Congratulations on getting involved in this important issue! What is the brightest idea?

CREDITS "A New Light?." Scholastic News April 16, 2007: 2. "Energy Efficiency." Energy Kid's Page. Energy Information Administration. 18 May "Living Wise, Water Wise, Energy Wise." Get Wise! Resource Action Programs. 10 May "Science, Nature & Energy." EcoKids. Earth Day Canada. 16 May "EcoKids for Kids." EcoKids. Earth Day Canada. 10 May 2007.