KS3-4: How do batteries work and why is energy storage so important?

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Suitable for 11-18-year olds (secondary and high schools, and college), this article and accompanying activity sheet can be used in the classroom, chemistry/STEM clubs and at home.

This resource links to KS3 and KS4 chemistry, It is also internationally relevant.

It can also be used as a careers resource and links to Gatsby Benchmarks:
Gatsby Benchmark 2: Learning from career and labour market information
Gatsby Benchmark 4: Linking curriculum learning to careers

The article explains how batteries work, the chemistry behind electrolytes and electrodes, and why batteries are so important for renewable energy. There is also an interview with chemist Prof Jenny Pringle, who talks about her career path and opportunities at storENERGY, a research lab based in Australia.

The activity sheet includes discussion points - seven questions the students can answer in groups or individually. There are also links to educational activities such as instructions on how to make a battery using lemons and other food stuffs.

This resource was first published on Futurum Careers, a free online resource and magazine aimed at encouraging 14-19-year-olds worldwide to pursue careers in science, tech, engineering, maths, medicine (STEM) and social sciences, humanities and the arts for people and the economy (SHAPE).

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