Recommended for grades 7-12 language arts, science, and social studies classes, this 5-7 day unit encourages students to investigate alternative energy sources through research. Focusing on geothermal energy, tide and ocean, fusion, wind, biomass, and solar energy as possible areas of consideration, the unit attempts to create an awareness of the barriers to overcome in the development of these energy sources, possible environmental consequences, and the probable time needed in the development of the new technologies. Each activity in the unit, focusing on a particular energy source, contains an introduction, the environmental effect that the source will have, and questions for investigation. Students are also asked to research information and prepare a report on a selected energy source. Rationale, objectives, and instructional strategies are provided for each activity. A list of process skills fostered, advanced teacher preparation, goals and objectives, and planning guide are also provided. (Author/JN)