Burning plants as fuel (non-statutory Climate Change & Sustainability)
I can investigate which plants might be used as alternative fuels to fossil fuels.
Burning plants as fuel (non-statutory Climate Change & Sustainability)
I can investigate which plants might be used as alternative fuels to fossil fuels.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A fuel is something that can be used to produce heat or light.
- Fossil fuels are found deep under Earth's surface and there is a limited amount left.
- Plants are a sustainable source of fuel as we can keep growing more.
- Like fossil fuels, biofuels release carbon dioxide on burning.
- Scientists and engineers investigate which plants are the best ones to grow for biofuels.
Keywords
Burn - To burn is to be on fire.
Fossil fuels - Fossil fuels are fuels made over millions of years from fossilised plants and animals buried deep beneath Earth's surface.
Carbon dioxide - Carbon dioxide is a type of gas found in Earth's atmosphere.
Sustainable - Sustainable means using things in a way that doesn't use them up or harm the environment, so they can be used again in the future.
Biofuel - Biofuels are fuels made from plant materials.
Common misconception
There is an endless supply of fossil fuels on Earth. There are no downsides to biofuels.
Teaching slides will explain that fossil fuel is a finite resource and will introduce the pros and cons of electric cars. Children will have a chance to discuss this in task B.
Equipment
A tray of sand, a safety lighter or matches, a selection of plant material to burn and a stopwatch.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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