The School Energy Review activity 

Turn your classroom into a space for discovery and problem solving. The School Energy Review gives students in Grade 5 and up the chance to investigate how their school uses energy. After being split into four groups, each group will focus on one energy-consuming group to gather data, suggest changes to consume less energy, and present their findings and suggestions to the class.  

With tools in hand and curiosity as their guide, students explore, measure, and analyze energy use throughout the building, then share their best ideas to make energy-saving changes. This hands-on activity turns abstract science concepts into something students can see, test, and improve. It connects learning to the world around them and builds a sense of responsibility for the spaces they use every day. 

How it works 

You can bring the activity to your classroom in one of two ways: 

• Invite Generation E to deliver the School Energy Review workshop to your class 

• Borrow a School Energy Review kit and guide your students through it yourself 

Each kit includes everything needed for a school-wide investigation: 

• Two portable electricity usage monitors 

• Two thermometers 

• Two light meters 

• Two flow rate bags 

• Two flashlights 

Once equipped, students divide into four teams: electronics and appliances, lighting, heating and cooling, and water and windows. Each group examines how energy is used in that area, gathers data, and develops recommendations for improvement. The activity wraps up with short team presentations where ideas for energy efficiency take centre stage. 

The components of this lesson are adaptable to fit the time you have available with your class. You can create a mini lesson or stretch out the activities over a series of multiple periods.  

Learning in action 

The School Energy Review addresses all five global competencies in science: critical thinking, creativity, citizenship, connection to self, and collaboration. It blends science, collaboration, and creativity into one meaningful activity. This is an inquiry-based learning experience that emphasizes the use of scientific instruments to gather accurate measurements and draw conclusions from observations. 

It’s an effective way to spark curiosity and show how small changes can make a big difference in energy use and sustainability. 

Get started 

Ready to investigate how your school uses energy? 

Book a classroom workshop or borrow a School Energy Review Kit today! We’ll provide everything you need at no cost.

You can also find worksheets and support materials for the School Energy Review on our website.