Three students surrounding a science experiment and one of them is holding a magnifying glass.

National Earth Science Week, October 12-18, celebrates the ways earth sciences shape our lives. This year’s theme, “Energy Resources for Our Future,” invites families to explore how we use energy, its many forms, and how we can make choices that protect our planet.

The week-long celebration reminds students and families how the choices we make about energy today shape the world that future generations will inherit. By learning together, families can build awareness and take small steps toward a brighter future.

PWCS encourages families to celebrate with simple at-home activities that spark curiosity and help our community think about energy use in their everyday lives.

Family Activities

1. Energy Detectives at Home

Take a “walkthrough” of your home. Count how many lights, chargers, or devices are plugged in. Talk about ways to reduce energy usage.

  • OBSERVE: Which devices do we use most? What can we unplug when not in use?

2. Solar Power in a Cup

Leave two identical cups of water in the sun and shade for an hour. Use a thermometer (or just feel with your hands) to compare.

  • EXPLAIN: Why was one cup warmer than the other? How could we use the sun’s energy in bigger ways?

3. Wind Power Challenge

Build a simple pinwheel from paper and a pencil. Place it near a fan and see how fast it spins. Try changing the size or shape of the blades.

  • ANALYZE: What design worked best? How do wind turbines make electricity?

4. Water Power at Work

Fill a plastic bottle with water, poke a hole near the bottom, and watch the flow spin a small pinwheel or toy.

  • EXTEND: What other ways do people use moving water for energy?

 5. Family Energy Pledge

Together, choose one new habit for the week (turning off lights, shorter showers, walking instead of driving) to conserve, or save, energy.

  • COMPARE: How did this change make a difference for our family?

Share your experiments, discoveries, and reflections with PWCS on our social media channels: PWCS Instagram.