PhotoelectricEffect

This 3-pronged lesson module is designed to introduce students to the photoelectric effect through observation, experimentation, modeling, and evaluation of which scientific model of light best explains their findings. Students will engage in three activities: 1) Construct simple electroscopes (using aluminum cans and tinsel) to gather evidence for the energy required to induce the photoelectric effect; 2) Explore a PhET simulation to deepen understanding of atomic-level interactions; and 3) Integrate data from the experiment and the simulation to make and defend a claim: "Is the photoelectric effect better explained by the Wave Model or the Particle Model of light?" The lesson is framed within the context of how the photoelectric effect is applied in technology through photovoltaics in solar panels.