Alex is 8 years old and loves to learn. While his friend Ben was over, the power went out for a few minutes from a storm. This got them thinking about how much we rely on electricity in our everyday lives.

Today's Lesson: Wind Energy

A few days later at school, Alex and Ben's teacher Mrs. Smith read a book to the class about wind energy and it reminded them of the time when the power went out at Alex's house.

Some kids weren't interested, but Alex and Ben had many questions. Mrs. Smith explained that turbines turn and power a generator that supplies an electric current. The turbines use wind to make electricity. The wind turns the blades that spin a shaft that connects to a generator, making electricity.

Parts of a Wind Turbine

The book explained that there are multiple parts that allow the turbine to make energy. The parts include...

• A rotor or blade that converts wind energy to usable energy
• a drive train that is important in creating electricity
• a tower that holds all of the parts like the rotor and drive train
• other equipment including controls and cables

Mrs. Smith, who made the first wind turbine?

Alex wanted to know who had created such a cool invention because he wants to do the same when he's older. Mrs. Smith explained that a man named Charles F. Brush created the turbine in 1888. It was the first electricity- generating wind turbine ever made. The students were surprised to hear that they have been around for such a long time.

Jack, another student in Mrs. Smith's class wants to know why we can't make electricity by jump roping, the Sun, and laser beams. Mrs. Smith continues reading. The book explains that they are a clean fuel source which helps prevent pollution. Their energy is from wind, which means it will never "run out". Turbines are very sustainable, meaning they will continue to provide a good source of electricity to use. They are also cost effective, which means that a larger amount can be used for a lower price, benefiting everyone.