Link it! Prior knowledge - Energy - Year 3

The 'Prior Knowledge' section of a Year 3 lesson plan encourages children to reflect on their understanding of energy before delving into the new topic. The lesson begins by asking children to consider the various sources of energy that power their homes, such as electricity, gas, coal, or solar power. This sets the stage for a discussion on the recent rise in energy costs and prompts students to think about their reliance on power in everyday life. Additionally, the lesson aims to raise awareness about the finite nature of energy resources and to get students thinking about the limitations of power and energy. This exploration serves as a foundation for the children to document what they already know in the 'Prior Knowledge' section of the Knowledge Organiser, which will help them connect new information to what they have already learned.

The 'LINK IT!' activity is structured to help students make connections between their existing knowledge and the new content they are about to learn. It encourages them to draw parallels within the same subject, such as other topics in science related to energy, and to link the new information to different subjects, perhaps considering the economic aspect of energy in geography or mathematics. The activity also invites them to reflect on their personal experiences with energy in their homes and community. By engaging with these connections, students are better equipped to understand how energy is vital in powering not just their homes but also the country as a whole, and to appreciate the broader implications of energy use and conservation.