Curriculum & Activities

BPA offers free publications, videos, curricula and activities for classroom use. Click the links to download, or contact visitorcenter@bpa.gov to request printed copies.

How energy moves from nature to your home

Students use electricity every day and often don’t stop to think about where the energy comes from, how it’s made, how it gets to their homes and schools, or what impact it might have on the environment. This educational video explains the difference between renewable and non-renewable energy sources. It then follows the journey of hydropower from a water drop falling as snow in the mountains to an energy watt traveling on an electricity superhighway to homes and schools.

Videos

How energy moves from nature to your home

How energy moves from nature to your home + segment on BPA and energy careers

Classroom Activities

History

BPA Film Collection Volume 1, 1939-1954, a two DVD set includes films produced by BPA including “Hydro,” “The Columbia,” “Highline,” “Power Builds Ships,” “25,000 Volts Under the Sea,” and “Look to the River.” To order, email the BPA Visitor Center visitorcenter@bpa.gov.

Science Lab

The BPA Science Lab is a series of simple, hands-on science experiments that will spark student interest in science. Science Lab experiments can be used in the classroom or at home, and are suitable for kids in fourth through 12th grades. Each experiment features simple tools and ingredients, and includes download-able instructions.

The Miracle of Electricity

Electricity. You can't see it, yet its power is evident just about everywhere you look. Learn more about this essential resource - from how it is generated and increasingly consumed to what you can do to be a smarter energy user. This information can be used in the classroom or at home, and is suitable for kids in eighth through 12th grades.

Hydropower

Transmission

Keeping the Lights On

Fish and Wildlife

The Amazing Journey of Columbia River Salmon - booklet
This richly illustrated 22-page story book follows the life of a Columbia River Salmon from a tiny stream to the ocean and back again. The booklet discuss salmon habitat, predators and lifecycle, and also provides an overview of the Northwest river system. For independent reading for fourth grade and older, or guided classroom use for younger grades.
The Amazing Journey of Columbia River Salmon - poster
This 21" x 33" poster can be used along with the booklet to explain the lifecycle of Northwest salmon.
Project Need: Putting Energy into Education
Water Science for Schools
Salmon Activity Book
Salmon Hexaflexagon
The River Mile: Classrooms can “ adopt” a mile long section of the Columbia River

Wind Energy

Kid Wind Project
Wind Energy in the Pacific Northwest – Check this link for up to date information on wind energy in BPA territory, including real-time animation showing current conditions.

Energy Efficiency

For more information, please contact:
Heather Bain - hlbain@bpa.gov