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Trains Through Time

Trains Through Time

Students will learn about the evolution of energy sources and how we can work to achieve net-zero emissions.

Lesson Plan

Supplies Needed

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  • Heavy Paper
  • Paper
  • Tape

Steps

  • Step 1

    Have students research energy sources used for train travel since the 1700s to current day from steam engines to coal to gasoline to electric. Have them learn about how each impacted society and the environment. Ask them to learn about what it means to achieve global net zero emissions. When did this concept arise? How could it affect global climate change? Does it apply to CO2 only or to all greenhouse gases?

  • Step 2

    Have students create a 3-D timeline to show how transportation energy has evolved. They could select a type of engine or a route or the purpose of a railway company's line to learn what was transported and how the energy sources evolved over time.

  • Step 3

    To make their 3-D information display, have them fold pieces of heavy paper lengthwise so that each can stand up. Then have students write informative statements and illustrate the modes of train travel they research on the front facing portion of the stand-up paper tents. They can illustrate a focal image (train engine or specific type of car for a business purpose--passengers or cargo or livestock transport). Then can attach the focal drawings to the tent bases so the entire information unit stands up.

  • Step 4

    Have students present their train information and art as they discuss some of their research on energy sources and the evolution of commercial transport.

Standards

SS: Power, Authority, and Governance: Develop awareness of rights and responsibilities of people in specific contexts.

SS: Science, Technology, and Society: Identify how technologies such as communication and transportation have evolved and how people have employed advances in technology to modify daily lives including health and economics. Explore historical examples and imagine future technologies.

Adaptations

Have students explore various types of renewable energy such as solar energy, wind power, hydropower, etc.

Ask students to explore and list ways to reduce the carbon footprint such as by "eating low" on the food chain meaning mostly fruits, vegetables, grains, and beans and by walking or biking to destinations when possible.