Bringing Energy Education to Life with PBS LearningMedia 

Energy is woven into nearly every part of our modern lives. It powers our homes and schools, fuels transportation, enables communication, and supports the technology we rely on every day. So much so that it also inspires books, movies, and innovations that enable us to imagine how energy might shape the future. Yet despite its importance, many people rarely stop to consider what energy actually is or how it makes so much of our daily lives possible. Understanding energy is the first step toward understanding the world around us. Thankfully, there are amazing resources available to help you and your students get started on your energy education journey!

What is PBS Learning Media?

PBS LearningMedia is a free online resource library designed to support teachers and educators with high-quality instructional materials. The platform offers thousands of engaging resources across a wide range of subjects, including STEM, social studies, language arts, and professional development. Its user-friendly design and ready-to-use lessons make it an excellent resource for bringing meaningful learning into the classroom—including energy education.

With more than 1.6 million teachers using the platform each month, PBS LearningMedia has become a trusted destination for educators nationwide. That's why we're proud to partner with them to offer three engaging collections designed to help students build a strong understanding of energy concepts. So, what can you expect to find in each collection?

Watt Watchers 

Watt Watchers of Texas is a state-sponsored STEM program to help boost energy literacy for K-12 students and help schools save money by saving energy. Through the program, students, teachers, and families will have access to energy saving tips, activities, and lessons. Within the Watt Watchers collection on PBS LeaningMedia, you will find dynamic K - 12 activities designed to help your students understand energy resources and the different roles they play in our lives.

Thirst for Power 

Discover the connections between water and energy throughout history in education resources from Thirst For Power. From ancient Roman aqueducts in Europe to modern-day massive hydroelectric power stations, Thirst for Power explores our dependence on water for energy as well as hidden vulnerabilities in our modern, water-dependent energy systems.

Power Trip 

Energy is humanity's single most important resource. Power Trip: The Story of Energy is an award-winning documentary series directed by Mat Hames, based on the groundbreaking book by Dr. Michael E. Webber. Filmed around the world, the series reveals the hidden energy embedded into our daily lives by examining the past, present and future of energy innovations. Each episode takes viewers on an immersive journey that provides historical context, a rich global perspective, and an optimistic vision to inspire and empower the next generation of energy innovators. In this collection, explore energy as the underlying force that carries us to space; causes large-scale disasters; transforms work, culture, and entertainment; and drives globalization.

Energy is all around us, shaping the way we live, work, and connect with the world. By helping students understand where energy comes from, how it is used, and why it matters, we empower them to think critically about the systems that support everyday life. Whether you're introducing basic energy concepts or exploring the relationship between energy, water, and innovation, these free PBS LearningMedia collections provide engaging, standards-aligned resources for every grade level.

Start exploring the Watt Watchers of Texas, Thirst for Power, and Power Trip collections today and discover new ways to bring energy education into your classroom. With ready-to-use lessons, videos, and hands-on activities, you'll have everything you need to inspire curiosity and help your students build a deeper understanding of one of the world's most essential resources. Happy teaching!