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Schemes of Work
QCA

Science at key stage 3    (Year 7)

Unit 7I: Energy resources
Section 3: c. Why are fuels useful?

QCA

Objectives

Children should learn:
  • to consider factors involved in making a fair comparison between different fuels

Activities

Outcomes

Children:
  • Ask for examples of uses of different fuels. Discuss with pupils how to carry out a fair test of which is the best fuel, eg liquid fuels (alcohols) in 'spirit burners', or solid fuels for camping stoves. Burn the fuel and record the temperature rise of water as a cooperative whole-class demonstration. Ask pupils to discuss how good they think the results are. Encourage pupils to consider factors which have not been controlled that may affect the results, and to consider possible errors of measurements.
  • produce a chart which shows temperature rise from a range of fuels
  • describe how to improve accuracy by repeating readings or by controlling variables more carefully

Points to note

  • Discuss the hazards and precautions with the class. They will have the opportunity to plan and carry out a similar comparison, for foods, later in the unit.
  • Safety

    • employer's risk assessments on the use of fuels should be followed. Eye protection should be worn. Small quantities should be used, and kept clear of stock supplies. Do not allow unsupervised use of fuels. Do not use petrol

Sections in this unit

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This unit is divided into sections. Each section contains a sequence of activities with related objectives and outcomes. You can view this unit by moving through the sections or print/download the whole unit.
1. a. Why are fuels useful?
2. b. Why are fuels useful?
3. c. Why are fuels useful?
4. What are fossil fuels?
5. a. What are renewable energy resources?
6. b. What are renewable energy resources?
7. c. What are renewable energy resources?
8. Checking progress
9. a. How do living things use energy?
10. b. How do living things use energy?
11. c. How do living things use energy?
12. Reviewing work