Course: Solar Energy Systems (CLIL Lesson Plans)

Level: A2–B1 (vocational students)
Duration: 45–60 minutes per lesson

 

 

Lesson 1. Renewable Energy and Solar Energy System

Goals:

- Introduce the concept of renewable energy

- Explain what solar energy systems are

- Develop topic vocabulary in English

Expected Results/Students will be able to:

- explain what renewable energy is

- name types of renewable energy

- describe a simple solar energy system

Key Vocabulary

renewable energy, solar power, solar panel, electricity, sunlight, energy source, environment, sustainable, power station

Lesson Stages

1. Warm-up (5 min)
Discussion:

- Where does electricity come from?

- What energy sources do you know?

(Teacher writes answers on board)

2. Presentation (15 min) - learning new vocabulary
https://wordwall.net/resource/109342135

 

https://wordwall.net/resource/109342344

 Vocabulary to use 

to be supplied - бути забезпеченим

to be used - використовуватися

to occur - траплятися, виникати

to be harnessed- використовуватися

to be installed - встановлюватися

to provide - забезпечувати

to require - вимагати, потребувати

to receive - отримувати

to consume - споживати

to transmit - передавати

to absorb - поглинати

to comprise - містити, складатися з,

to connect - з’єднувати

to equip - обладнати, облаштувати

 

3.               Reading Task (15 min)
   Short text about solar energy systems.

Renewable Energy and Solar Panel Energy Systems

Renewable energy is energy that is supplied by natural sources such as the sun, wind, and water. These energy sources are used to produce electricity without harming the environment. Solar energy occurs when sunlight reaches the Earth and is harnessed with the help of solar technology.

Solar panels are installed on rooftops, buildings, or open land where they can receive maximum sunlight. A solar energy system is used to convert sunlight into electricity. The system provides clean energy for homes, schools, and businesses.

Solar panels require sunlight in order to produce electricity. The photovoltaic cells in the panels receive sunlight and absorb solar radiation.     This energy is transmitted through electrical circuits and converted into electricity.

A typical solar power system comprises several important components: solar panels, an inverter, mounting structures, and electrical cables. These components are connected together to form a working system.

The electricity produced by solar panels is used to power appliances and devices that consume electrical energy. In some systems, electricity is transmitted to the power grid so that other users can also receive clean energy.

Solar energy systems are becoming more popular because they provide sustainable power and reduce the use of fossil fuels.

CLIL tasks

Write T (true) or F (false).

1.               Renewable energy comes from natural sources. ____
2.               Solar panels work without sunlight. ____
3.               Photovoltaic cells absorb solar radiation. _____
4.               A solar system includes only solar panels. _____
5.               Solar electricity can be transmitted to the power grid.  ____

 

Answer the questions.

1.                  What sources supply renewable energy?
2.                  Where are solar panels usually installed?
3.                  What do photovoltaic cells absorb?
4.                  What components does a solar energy system comprise?
5.                  Why is solar energy environmentally friendly?

 

4. Reflection (5 min)
Students complete sentence:

“Solar energy is important because …”

 

 

Lesson 2. Types of Solar Energy Systems

Goals:

-  Introduce types of solar systems

- Explain advantages and disadvantages

Expected Results. Students will be able to :

- identify types of solar systems

- explain how they work

- discuss pros and cons

Lesson Stages

1.               Warm-up - revising vocabulary to use :

https://wordwall.net/resource/97944803/english/solar-energy-system-vocabulary-to-use

- AC - alternating current  - змінний струм

- DC - direct current - постійний струм

- utility company - енергопостачальна компанія

- electricity grid - електромережа

- PV - photovoltaic - фотоелектричний

- solar cell - сонячна батарея

- electric circuit - електричне коло

- electricity consumption/ load  - споживання електроенергії

- charge controller - контролер заряду

- junction box - розподільна коробка

 

2.               Use fo English. Working out https://wordwall.net/resource/97945221
3.               Presentation : watch the video about different types of solar energy systems https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FurOeegcA3Q&authuser=0

After watching the video answer the questions:

1)  What is a solar energy system?

2) What are the main components of a solar energy system?

3)  What is the difference between an on-grid and an off-grid solar system?

4)  Why are batteries used in some solar energy systems?

5)  What are the advantages of using solar energy?

4. Complete the table Advantages and Disadvantages of a Solar Energy System:

Advantages	Disadvantages

 

Tips:

-  Solar panels and equipment can be expensive at first.

- People can produce their own electricity.

- Using solar panels can lower the cost of electricity.

- It works best in sunny weather and less in cloudy or rainy conditions.

- Solar panels need enough roof or land area.

- After installation, maintenance costs are usually low.

- It does not produce air pollution or harmful gases.

- Batteries for storing solar energy can cost a lot.

- Solar energy comes from the sun and will not run out.

- Solar panels cannot produce electricity without sunlight.

 

5.Reflection: Complete the sentence: In my opinion, installing solar panel energy systems is…

 

Lesson 3. Solar Panel / PV Panel. Its components and parameters

Goals:

- Learn the structure of a PV panel

- Understand key technical parameters

Expected Results/ Students will be able to:

- name parts of a solar panel

- explain what PV means

- read basic parameters

Vocabulary to use:  photovoltaic cell, module, frame, glass layer, efficiency, voltage, current, power output

Lesson Stages

1. Warm-up
Show picture of solar panel.

Ask:
What parts can you see?

Vocabulary to learn and use : https://wordwall.net/resource/98470096/english/pv-panels-working-process

2.               Use of English . CLIL task (complete the text) :

https://wordwall.net

/resource/98473439/english/solar-panel-construction 3. Presentation
Teacher explains components:

-photovoltaic cells

- glass layer

- aluminum frame

- junction box

- cables

3.               CLIL Task – Diagram Labeling
   Students label parts on a PV panel diagram.

Tips: junction box, encapsulant (2), solar cells, back sheet, aluminium  frame, tempered glass.

4. Technical Reading
Students read the text:

A solar battery system consists of several internal and external components that work together to store and manage energy. At its core, it contains battery cells (often lithium-ion or lead-acid) managed by a Battery Management System (BMS) and connected to the home via an inverter.

Internal Battery Components

Every rechargeable battery cell requires three fundamental chemical components to function: 

- Anode (Negative Electrode): Typically made of graphite in lithium-ion batteries or metallic lead in lead-acid batteries.

- Cathode (Positive Electrode): In solar applications, this is often Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) due to its long life and safety, though lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) or lead-dioxide are also used.

- Electrolyte: A chemical medium (liquid, gel, or dry) that allows ions to flow between the anode and cathode during charging and discharging.

- Separators: Materials like polyethylene (PE) that prevent the anode and cathode from touching (which would cause a short circuit) while still allowing ions to pass through. 

Key System Management Components

Modern solar battery systems include sophisticated hardware and software to ensure safety and efficiency: 

- Battery Management System (BMS): Known as the "unseen guardian," it monitors cell voltage, temperature, and state of charge to prevent overcharging or overheating.

- Inverter (Power Conversion System): Converts the Direct Current (DC) stored in the battery into Alternating Current (AC) used by home appliances.

- Charge Controller: Regulates the flow of electricity from the solar panels to prevent the battery from being damaged by overcharging.

Energy Management System (EMS): High-level software that optimizes energy flow between the solar panels, battery, home loads, and the utility grid. 

True or False

Read the statements and write True (T) or False (F).

1.                  Every rechargeable battery cell needs three basic chemical components to work.
2.                  The anode is the positive electrode in a battery.
3.                  Lithium Iron Phosphate is often used in solar batteries because it is safe and lasts a long time.
4.                  The electrolyte helps ions move between the anode and the cathode.
5.                  Separators allow the anode and cathode to touch each other.
6.                  The Battery Management System checks voltage and temperature.
7.                  The inverter changes AC electricity into DC electricity for home appliances.
8.                  The charge controller protects the battery from overcharging.
9.                  The Energy Management System helps control the flow of energy in the system.

 

(Answers: 1) T, 2)  F, 3) T, 4) T, 5)  F, 6) T, 7)  F, 8)  T, 9) T)

 

5.Reflection: students answer a question  What are components of a solar battery?

 

Lesson 4. Inverter DEYE. Description and main features

Goals:

- Introduce inverter function

- Study DEYE inverter features

Expected Results/ Students will be able to:

- explain what an inverter does

- identify main features of DEYE inverter

Vocabulary: inverter, DC current, AC current, conversion, efficiency, display, controller,uninterruptible, accessible, button, DC switch, meter port, grid, priority, handle, wall mounting bracket, stainless, anti-collision, wrench, plug, sensor clamp

Lesson Stages

1. Warm-up
Question:
Why do solar systems need an inverter?

2. Presentation

Presenting vocabulary https://wordwall.net/resource/98470975/english/solar-invertor-overview

 

3.Watch a video  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jM0f7BvJvkw&authuser=0

Answer the questions:

1.                  What is the main topic of the video?
2.                  Who is speaking in the video?
3.                  What is one important thing the speaker explains?
4.                  What example does the speaker give?
5.                  What did you learn from the video?

4.               Reading (CLIL task)
   Work out the manual on using DEYE inverter https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MWBQoSNJK-L1B3qRtUe1AOWCwSLGzgBk/view   
5.               Reflection:

Students answer questions.

1.                  What are the components of the DEYE inverter ?
2.                  Can you overview this product?

 

 

Lesson 5. Tools for Mounting PV Panels. Equipment to use

Goals:

- Introduce installation tools

- Develop safety awareness

Expected Results/ Students will be able to:

- name installation tools

- describe their function

Vocabulary:  drill, screwdriver, wrench, mounting rail, clamp, measuring tape, ladder

Lesson stages

1.               Warm up  (10 min) - name the tools you know or use in everyday life https://wordwall.net/resource/98969993/%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B3%D0%BB%D1%96%D0%B9%D1%81%D1%8C%D0%BA%D0%B0/tools
2.               CLIL Task (15 min)  - Students match:

Tool → Function

Example:
Drill → makes holes in roof.

1.                  Angle finder – measures angles between surfaces or parts.
2.                  Torpedo level – checks if a surface is level or vertical (plumb).
3.                    Chalk line – makes a long, straight line on a surface for cutting or building.
4.                  Cordless drill – drills holes and drives screws without a power cord.
5.                  Drill bits – cut holes in wood, metal, or other materials when used with a drill.
6.                  Hole saw – cuts large circular holes in materials like wood or drywall.
7.                  Torque wrench – tightens bolts and nuts with a specific amount of force.
8.                  Nut driver – tightens or loosens nuts and bolts.
9.                  Wire strippers – remove insulation from electrical wires.
10.             Crimpers – press connectors onto wires to make a strong electrical connection.
11.             Lineman’s pliers – cut, twist, and grip electrical wires.
12.             C-clamps – hold materials tightly together while working.
13.             Pry bar – lifts, separates, or removes boards and nails
14.             Wire cutter – cuts electrical wires and cables.
15.             Hacksaw – cuts metal, plastic, or pipes.
16.             Tape measure – measures length, width, or distance.
17.             Extension cords – carry electrical power from an outlet to tools far away.
18.             Fuse puller – safely removes electrical fuses.

3.               Practice (15 min)
   Students describe installation steps using tools.
4.               Reflection: What are  the main tools for installing batteries? Describe their functions.

 

Lesson 6. Inverter Manual for Users. Description

Goals:

- Learn to read technical manuals

- Understand inverter controls

Expected Results / Students will be able to :

- identify inverter buttons

- understand basic instructions

Vocabulary: manual, settings, display screen, power button, configuration, indicator

CLIL Task  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MWBQoSNJK-L1B3qRtUe1AOWCwSLGzgBk/view?usp=sharing

Students read part of a manual and complete instructions (28-40) :

1 Turn on the inverter
2 Check the display
3 Connect to system

 

 

Lesson 7. Installing and Maintenance of an Inverter

Goals:

- Understand installation steps

- Learn maintenance procedures

 

Expected Results / Students will be able to :

- describe installation sequence

- explain maintenance rules

1.               Warm up

Watching a video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twuPBLoIqSc

2.               Working out the instruction

In electrical wiring in the UK, L and N refer to the following:

- L (Live): This wire carries the current to the device or appliance. It is typically colored brown in the UK wiring system.

- N (Neutral): This wire completes the electrical circuit by carrying the current away from the device back to the power source. It is usually colored blue.

In addition to these, there may also be a PE (Protective Earth) or Earth wire, which is usually green and yellow striped, providing a safety path for electrical faults. Properly identifying and connecting these wires is crucial for safe electrical installations.

 

3. CLIL Task

Students arrange installation steps in correct order:

- connect cables

- install inverter on wall

- check voltage

- start system

 

Lesson 8. System Errors and Troubleshooting

Goals:

- Identify common system errors

- Learn problem-solving strategies

 

Expected Results/ Students will be able to:

- recognize error messages

-suggest solutions

1.               Warming up: watching a video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OouUyaUR250&authuser=0
2.               Working out the Vocabulary

error code, overload, overheating, connection problem, troubleshooting

3.               CLIL Task

Students match:

Error → Solution

Example:

Low voltage → check cables

 

 

 

 

 

Lesson 9. Workplace Hazards.Safety rules at a workplace

Goals:

- Identify workplace hazards

- Learn safety rules

Expected Results / Students will be able to :

 

- list hazards

- explain safety precautions

1.               Warm up

The benefits of workplace safety are:
 Employee retention increases if they are provided with a safe working environment.
    Failure to follow safety rules  and guidelines can result in significant legal and financial consequences.
   A safe environment enables employees to stay invested in their work and increases productivity.
   Employer branding and company reputation can both benefit from a safe working environment.
2. Working out  on the vocabulary

Vocabulary to use:
- employee - працівник
- employer - роботодавець
- to follow - слідувати
- consequences- наслідки
-safe environment- безпечне середовище
-to increase- піднімати, збільшувати
- threats- загрози
- to threaten - погрожувати
- to prohibit- заборонити
- electrocution - ураження струмом
- to  keep out - триматися подалі

https://wordwall.net/uk/resource/99493660
     Common Workplace Hazards
 The common workplace hazards are:
 Biological: The threats caused by biological agents like viruses, bacteria, animals, plants, insects and also humans, are known as biological hazards.
 Chemical: Chemical hazard is the hazard of inhaling various chemicals, liquids and solvents. Skin irritation, respiratory system irritation, blindness, corrosion, and explosions are all possible health and physical consequences of these dangers.
 Mechanical: Mechanical Hazards comprise the injuries that can be caused by the moving parts of machinery, plant or equipment.
 Psychological: Psychological hazards are occupational hazards caused by stress, harassment, and violence.
Physical: The threats that can cause physical damage to people is called physical hazard. These include unsafe conditions that can cause injury, illness and death.
 Ergonomic: Ergonomic Hazards are the hazards of the workplace caused due to awkward posture, forceful motion, stationary position, direct pressure, vibration, extreme temperature, noise, work stress, etc.

 

3.CLIL Task

Students learn warning signs (pages 189-190) :

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tYk4Orqa9JLxiJu666wuF_uNMRt1uTME/view

 

 

 

Lesson 10. TEST

Part 1 – Multiple Choice Questions (9 points)
1) A solar panel is a device that ________.
 A) stores heat
 B) converts sunlight into electricity
 C) burns fuel to make power
 D) works only at night
2) The small units inside a solar panel are called ________.
 A) switches
 B) photovoltaic cells
 C) batteries
 D) inverters3) Batteries in a solar system are used to ________.
 A) make sunlight
 B) store energy for later
 C) send energy to the sun
 D) collect rainwater
4) The junction box connects ________.
A) solar panels and wires
B) water and gas pipes
C) the roof and the wall
D) lights and windows
5) Solar technicians use a multimeter to ________.

 A) measure electrical voltage and current
 B) check the weather
 C) clean panels
 D) store data
6) Safety equipment for installing solar panels includes ________.
A) gloves and helmets
B) books and pencils
C) shoes only
D) mirrors and glasses
7) A first aid kit should include ________.
A) bandages and antiseptic
B) solar panels
C) paintbrushes
D) batteries
8)  Fire extinguishers are used to ________.A) store energy
B) put out fires
C) measure electricity
D) clean solar panels
9)  Good safety practice includes ________.A) keeping the workplace clean and organized
B) working without gloves
C) ignoring hazards
D) running on the roof
Part 2 - answer open questions (3 points)
10) What are two advantages of solar energy?  What are two disadvantages of solar energy?
11)  Name at least three tools used to install solar panels
12) Inyour opinion, what is the most important safety rule for solar panel
technicians and why?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Additional material

First aid . Instructions and description

Vocabulary to use
 -bandage - пов’язка ,
-plaster- пластир  ,
-burn - опік,
-cut - поріз,
-wound - рана,
-bleeding - кровотеча,
 -ambulance - швидка,
 -emergency - надзвичайна ситуація,
-first aid kit - аптечка,
-breathe - дихати,
-unconscious - непритомний,
-pain - біль,
-rest - відпочити,
-call for help - покликати на допомогу
1) https://wordwall.net/uk/resource/80200955/injures-vocabulary?search=a494d8e06e658cae9794cddbcc6a966f6a61a0a5aa95a45c6390a698cbd89997d8786259cee7d99395977061
2) https://wordwall.net/uk/resource/83463707/injures?search=a494d8e06e688cae9794cddbcc6a966f6a61a0a5aa95a45c6390a698cbd89997d8786259cee7d99395977061
3) https://wordwall.net/uk/resource/34864596/first-aid-kit
Useful phrases to use

Call for help! - Кличте  допомогу
Don’t move the injured person. - Не рухай поранену людину
You should stay calm. - Вам варто залишатися спокійним
You must wear gloves.- Ви повинні носити рукавички
You can use clean water to wash the wound. - Ви можете використовувати чисту воду, щоб промити рану.

Basic First Aid at Work 
 - When an accident happens at work, stay calm and act quickly.
  - First, check if the area is safe. Then help the injured person.
  - If someone is bleeding, use a bandage or clean cloth.
-  If the person cannot breathe, call an ambulance immediately.
 - You should not give food or drink to a person who feels sick.
 - Always wear gloves when you touch blood or wounds.
-  Keep the first aid kit in an easy-to-find place.

Reflection
1) What should you do first in an accident?
2) What can you use if someone is bleeding?
3) What should you do if the person cannot breathe?
4) Should you give food to a sick person?
5) Where should you keep the first aid kit?