Hydroelectricity in the Mackenzie Country
Introduction
Students visit the Benmore Dam to learn about a hydroelectric power scheme.Levels 1–5 visit the Benmore Dam lookout and visitor centre for a stunning first-hand study of the hydroelectric power scheme.
Levels 6–8 meet with a member of the Meridian Energy team for a qustion and answer session relevant to their area of study. Discussion often includes, but is not limited to, the workings of a hydroelectric power scheme, the effects of interrupting natural processes and steps taken to mitigate unwanted effects.
Level
Year groups: 11-13
Curriculum levels: 6-8
Learning areas
|
Learning Area* |
Discipline |
Strand/AO |
|---|---|---|
|
Biology |
Microcellular life processes, adaptation A.S. 1.1, 1.3, 1.5, 2.1, 2.3, 2.4, 2.6, 3.2, 3.4 |
|
|
Chemistry |
Explain aspects of selected elements |
|
|
Education for Sustainability |
A.S. 2.2 , 3.2, |
|
|
Geography |
Understand how people interact with environments and the consequences Understand how processes explain the environment A.S. 1.1, 2.1, 3.1 |
|
|
Maths |
Geometry and measurement |
Volume, capacity and mass (multiple AO) |
|
Science |
Nature of Science |
Investigation in science – build on experiences (multiple AO) |
|
Communicating in Science (multiple AO) |
||
|
Physical World |
Physical inquiry and physics concepts – sources of energy, forces, electricity |
|
|
Social Studies |
Understand how decisions are made about access and use of resources |
|
|
Technology |
Technological knowledge |
Technological products and systems (multiple AO) |
|
|
Nature of technology |
Characteristics of technology (multiple AO) |
*If you have another learning area you wish to explore, we can adapt.
Learning objectives
Students will:
- understand the workings of the Waitaki hydroelectric networks
- identify the impacts on natural processes, landscapes and habitats
- discuss wider implications of power generation for our economy.
Key competencies
Thinking, managing self and contributing
Details
Location:
- Talk by Meridian Energy: Aoraki Mount Cook LEOTC will organise this for you
- Visit to Benmore Dam visitor centre: book this yourself (open 10.30 am to 4.30 pm daily during summer)
Duration: Various depending on key focus
Hazard level: Moderate (outside climatic conditions and terrain)
Cost: LEOTC fee (presentation only)