In the energy debate project we learned all about nuclear power and the science behind nuclear fusion and fission. We then had to find ways to defend and attack nuclear power in small debate groups against kids across our grade. In this process we learned about atoms and their structures, what isotopes are and the science of why things are radioactive, the difference between fusion and fission, how nearly all forms of power work, like coal, natural gas, oil, solar, wind, hydro-power, geothermal energy, and of course nuclear. To prepare for our debate we had to answer the pro and con side of 5 questions each of which had two parts, Nuclear energy is a better alternative to fossil fuels? Nuclear waste can be disposed of efficiently and safely? Nuclear energy is a better alternative to hydro-power, solar, and wind energy? Nuclear energy is truly capable of powering our world indefinitely? Accidents that can happen at nuclear energy plants are acceptable risks?, in the end we only ended up using three. On debate day we had no other classes, most kids had groups of four, I had a trio, and on the day of one of us had to be somewhere else for the day so it was just me and another against four other kids. I debated against someone from my own school team the first round, then the next two rounds I debated against kids from other classes.
From this project I learned how to effectively research questions and find evidence. I've also learned how to debate my side of an argument even if I don't wholeheartedly agree. I am proud of the fact that I did so much research and stood my ground for my position even when I was out-numbered. A challenging part of this was definitely all the boring hours of research we had to do then let two questions which is about 4 hours of work go down the drain. If I were to do this project again I would prepare for the questions that the other team might ask us so we could be more prepared.