Energy concepts are taught throughout K-12 with special emphasis on basic energy concepts emphasized in the elementary grades. These concepts include: definition of energy, natural laws that govern energy, and energy flow in biotic and abiotic systems. The KEEP Energy Education Conceptual Framework, US Department of Energy Essential Principles of Energy Literacy, and Wisconsin Standards for Science all indicate/show/support an understanding of energy as a key physical science concept upon which students build knowledge of natural and built environments.
KEEP’s professional development, lessons, and kits integrate to support pre-service and in-service, formal and non-formal educators to feel confident teaching about basic energy concepts to elementary students through observation and measurement of common phenomena.