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e-Journal

Hybrid Cars (p. 319)


Step 1. Questions

Hybrid cars are becoming more and more popular. You drive them the same way as regular cars, but they use less gas and are better for the environment.

Write a report about hybrid cars. You will research how hybrid cars work and what their advantages and disadvantages are. Here are some questions to guide your research:
  • What is a hybrid car?
  • How do hybrid cars produce electricity?
  • How do hybrid cars help people and the environment?
  • What are some advantages and disadvantages of hybrid cars?
  • Do you think hybrid cars are a good idea?
Are you ready? Begin by visiting the Web sites listed in Step 2. Look for answers to the questions above, and write down what you learn in the note-taking boxes.

You may use search engines to research other Web sites. Or research hybrid cars in the library. When you are ready, follow Steps 3 and 4 to write your report.


Step 2. Research

Research answers for the questions you were asked in Step 1. Visit these Web sites. Take notes about them on this page, too!


Toolbox Tip: Click here to learn how to send information from a Web Site to your computer at home.


How Hybrid Cars Work
Explore this interactive Web site to learn more about hybrid cars. Click the links on top for more information about types of hybrids. Roll your cursor over the graphic to get more information about the parts of a hybrid car and how they work. This Web site is from the U.S. Department of Energy.
Take Notes:



Will Your First Car Be A Hybrid?
This article gives a good overview of some reasons to buy a hybrid car. You will need Acrobat Reader to open this file. The article comes from a newsletter by the U.S. Department of Energy.
Take Notes:



Electric Cars: Batteries not included?
This Web site hosted by the University of Wisconsin describes the technology behind hybrid cars. The text is a bit difficult, but do your best to pick out the main idea and key points.
Take Notes:



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