Overview
Is nuclear power a solution to climate change? Why/Why not? How does nuclear power compare with carbon-based and renewable energy? This lesson takes a brief look at the history of nuclear power, alleged dangers and political agendas, the consequences of increasing the use of nuclear energy, including the potential environmental impact of building more nuclear power plants in the United States and abroad. This lesson also highlights the importance of critical thinking on polarizing issues and how solutions should not be disregarded because of fear.

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Lesson Insights

Grade level and subjects
• Recommended for grades 6-12
• Subjects: Science / Technology and History
• Works in Classroom, Hybrid, and Homeschool settings

What students will learn
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
• by the end of this lesson,;
• list the pros and cons of nuclear power;
• identify potential environmental impacts that concern activists;
• explain in basic terms how a nuclear power plant works; and
• hypothesize about the future of nuclear energy in America.

Key concepts and terms covered
Existential, Climate change, Fearmongering, Activists, Nuclear energy, Nuclear reactor, Emissions, Uranium (U-235), and Fission.

Sample discussion questions
• Which European countries get a lot of electricity from nuclear power?
• In 2021, the USA had 93 operable nuclear reactors, which generated 19.6% of the country's electricity. Does that surprise you? Why/Why not?
• Shutting down electrical generating plants that run on coal, oil, and natural gas will reduce our electrical supply, which wind and solar will not be able to make up. Yet there is a push to get people to buy electric cars. Is there a contradiction here? How so?/How not?
• What is nuclear waste? How much nuclear waste is produced from nuclear power reactors?
• What is the role of government when it comes to energy production? Should politicians cater to special interests? Should they regulate industries? How can regulation be done objectively?

What’s in the free teacher’s guide
This printable 14-page Teacher's Guide includes a lesson description, learning objectives, key vocabulary, a fill-in viewing guide with answer key, and discussion and analysis questions.

Standards alignment
Aligned to state standards — use the SITC Standards Tool to match this video to the standards in your state.