Back to: Science e-catalog Grade e-Journal
e-Journal

Museum Mail Call (pp. 624–625)


Step 1. Questions

When we turn on the lights or run a washing machine, we use energy. Most of the energy that we use comes from fossil fuels. It is important to remember that fossil fuels are running out and that they pollute the environment. When we conserve energy, we help keep the environment clean, we save money, and we save these important resources.

Write a report about energy conservation. Before you begin, you will need to research different ways that people conserve energy. Here are some questions to guide your research:
  • Is it more energy efficient to wash clothes in cold water or hot water? Why?
  • How does sealing air leaks around windows save energy?
  • Why is it important to conserve energy?
  • What are some other ways to conserve energy in the home?
Are you ready? Begin by visiting the Web sites in Step 2. Look for answers to the questions above, and write down what you learn in the note-taking boxes.

With teacher supervision, you may use search engines to research other Web sites. You also can research energy conservation at the library. When you are ready, follow Steps 3 and 4 to write your report.



Step 2. Research

Research answers to 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 another computer.


Tips on Saving Energy and Money at Home
This Web site from the U.S. Department of Energy lists ways to save energy. Read about how to save energy when doing laundry. Then click INSULATION & SEALING AIR LEAKS. To learn more about how to seal air leaks, click SEALING AIR LEAKS. Finally, click SAVE ENERGY & MONEY TODAY for even more things that you and your family can do to conserve energy.
Take Notes:



Wash Clothes in Cold Water
Here you can find out about the difference between washing clothes in cold water and washing clothes in hot water. Also, this Web page lists many other ways to save energy and money when you wash clothes. This Web page is provided by Charity Guide.
Take Notes:



Saving Energy in Your Home
This Web page is from a United Kingdom government public service site. Learn even more about ways of conserving energy.
Take Notes:



Additional Sites

Hog Busters
This fun, interactive Web site will teach you different ways to conserve energy in your home. Try all five training games to learn about energy conservation. Energy Hog is sponsored by a group of public and private organizations working together to help conserve energy.
Take Notes:



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