This document is one of five learning packets on alternative energy developed as part of a descriptive curriculum research project in Arkansas (see note). The overall objectives of the learning packets are to improve the level of instruction in the alternative energies by vocational exploration teachers, and to facilitate the integration of new content on energy into existing vocational programs. Each learning packet contains unit objectives, information, transparency masters, lecture outline, suggested activities, student assignment sheets, tests, and answers to the tests. This unit on solar energy covers the following topics: introduction to solar energy; buying and maintaining solar equipment; basic solar heating system; materials for solar collectors; and passive solar energy (heating). (KC)