This resources provides a framework that students will follow for student debate/discussion on the values and drawbacks of bio-fuels (ethanol). Students are given background knowledge and time to research articles about bio-fuels and the impact on the environment and society. Students without a background in research would need instruction from the teacher or library media specialist.
The students research individually. The students initially discuss their research in small groups to clarify meaning and understanding. Finally, the students debate independently.

The lesson provides basic research frameworks; and formative and summative assessment opportunities.

In this activity, students examine how to grow plants the most efficiently. They imagine that they are designing a biofuels production facility and need to know how to efficiently grow plants to use in this facility. As a means of solving this design problem, they plan a scientific experiment in which they investigate how a given variable (of their choice) affects plant growth. They then make predictions about the outcomes and record their observations after two weeks regarding the condition of the plants' stem, leaves and roots. They use these observations to guide their solution to the engineering design problem. The biological processes of photosynthesis and transpiration are briefly explained to help students make informed decisions about planning and interpreting their investigation and its results.

This kit explores how sustainability has been presented in the media with a particular focus on issues related to food, water and agriculture. Each of the 19 lessons integrates media literacy and critical thinking into lessons about different aspect of sustainability. Constant themes throughout the kit include social justice, climate change, energy, economics and unintended consequences.

Ethanol as a biofuel is making an impact on our lives. This power point goes over the steps of ethanol.