In this Project Based Learning unit, students are asked to answer the question, “Is nuclear energy sustainable?” First, students are introduced to their task through an entry event in which they are given a brief introduction to the nuclear energy controversy and are told they will be writing an Op-Ed arguing for or against nuclear power based on their knowledge of the atom, nuclear chemistry, and nuclear power. They are also tasked with creating a public service announcement to persuade others of their views. After identifying what they know and want to learn about nuclear chemistry and nuclear power, they research the topics, complete labs/ activities about atomic structure, read a number of different opinion pieces, and hear a presentation from an activist. They work collaboratively in groups for much of the process. Then they write the Op-Ed (individually) and complete public service announcement (in groups). The project concludes with presentations of their editorials and public service announcements to the class and community activists.
