1. A STEM-based cross-country, collaborative project that challenges students to design and construct an efficient wind turbine. A Mighty Wind Across America

2. Did you know… According to the Department of Energy, by 2020 the US must have at least 6% of it's electrical energy from wind power, and 20% wind energy by 2030. Minnesota wind farms power 700,000 homes (AWEA.org). NJ wind farms power approximately 2,000 homes (AWEA.org).

3. Wind Turbine Basics The blades of a wind turbine catch the wind and turn, which rotates a shaft connected to a generator. When the generator turns, electricity is produced.

4. Research & Investigation Visit the following National Geographic website to learn background information on wind power: http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/global- warming/wind-power-profile/ http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/global- warming/wind-power-profile/ Learn about the smart grid here: http://ge.ecomagination.com/smartgrid/#/alternative_energy http://ge.ecomagination.com/smartgrid/#/alternative_energy Play with the “Wow Windmills!” virtual labs: http://siemens.discoveryeducation.com/middle-school/resources/virtual- labs/ http://siemens.discoveryeducation.com/middle-school/resources/virtual- labs/

5. Introduction to Design Challenge Read page 1 of the design challenge. Complete the Pre-Assessment and hand it in. We will visit the library over the next 2 days to learn more about wind power. Teams will be boy-girl, 2-3 students per team. Clients will be assigned to teams randomly. We will email MHS students this week with questions and Skype next Friday.

6. Final Notes… All the information and resources you need are in your packet! Remember to be clear communicators with your MHS clients. Ask relevant questions and provide as much detail as possible when being asked something.