Lesson summary
Students investigate existing and emerging car technologies that may provide cleaner and more energy efficient modes of transport in the future. They will study past and existing technologies, analysing their pros and cons in regards to environmental impacts (inclusive of human health), efficiency and long-term sustainability to give them an understanding of why new modes of transport continue to be developed. Students create an alternative technology guide for the confused car buyer.
Learning intentions:
Students will...
- understand why current vehicle technologies are unsustainable
- recognise a range of different vehicle technologies and how they might contribute to sustainability and human health.
Lesson guides and printables
Lesson details
Curriculum mapping
Australian Curriculum content descriptions:
Year 9 & 10 Design and Technologies:
- Explain how products, services and environments evolve with consideration of preferred futures and the impact of emerging technologies on design decisions (ACTDEK041).
- Critique needs or opportunities to develop design briefs and investigate and select an increasingly sophisticated range of materials, systems, components, tools and equipment to develop design ideas (ACTDEP048).
Syllabus Outcomes: D&T5.2.1, D&T5.3.1, D&T5.3.2, D&T5.1.1.
Time required: 60 mins (plus 15 min of homework).
Level of teacher scaffolding: Low – oversee activity.
Resources required
- Internet access, Student Worksheet – one copy per student OR computers/tablets to access the online worksheet
- Hybrid vehicle technologies fact sheet, Internal combustion engines fact sheet, Electric vehicle technologies fact sheet, Hydrogen fuel cell technologies fact sheet, Future vehicles fact sheet.
Additional info
Following this lesson is an ideal way for students to participate in Planet Ark’s Schools Tree Day – the largest nature-care event in Australian schools. You and your students will join thousands of amazing teachers in making a difference, fostering a child’s love of nature and creating positive environmental change. So, get growing! It only takes a minute to register for Schools Tree Day.
Welcome back!
Don't have an account yet?
Log in with:
By signing up to Cool.org you consent and agree to Cool's privacy policy to
store, manage and process your personal information. To read more, please see
our privacy policy here(Opens in new tab).
Create your free Cool.org account.
Many of our resources are free, with an option to upgrade to Cool+ for premium content.
Already have an account?
Sign up with:
By signing up to Cool.org you consent and agree to Cool's privacy policy to
store, manage and process your personal information. To read more, please see
our privacy policy here(Opens in new tab).