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INTRODUCTORY TEXT TO THE LESSON The study of the River Shannon includes the Hydroelectric scheme at Parteen and Ardnacrusha.
The learning objective was to use the site visit as the basis for a lesson on energy and power. The Junior Certificate science syllabus includes a section on energy and conversions:
Identify different forms of energy.
- Research different forms of energy around the
classroom, e.g. sound, light, heat, wind, electrical and
chemical.
- Discuss insulation and the conservation of energy in the
home and the environmental impact of wasting energy.
- Through guided discussion, generate a list of renewable
and non-renewable resources.
The students looked at the effects of the construction of the hydroelectric power station on the production of electricity in Irealnd. They also considered energy conversions, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of hydroelectricity.
The effects of the hydroelectric power on fish life - specifically salmon - in the river. They learned about the intervention by the electricity company, the building of salmon ladders to allow re-stocking of the river.
Students presented their findings to their classmates.
