Encourage your students to join the Geothermal Song Parody Contest—a fun, creative way to explore renewable energy through music.
The Geothermal Song Parody Contest is an outreach initiative designed to help middle school students learn about geothermal energy in a fun, memorable, and engaging way. Students work in teams to write and perform song parodies that teach others what they’ve learned—replacing the lyrics of popular songs with geothermal facts, vocabulary, and concepts.
Originally inspired by science educator Tom McFadden’s use of music in the classroom, the idea was adapted for Utah by Milford science teacher Zac Taylor and Utah FORGE communications intern Téa Schmid. The contest has since grown from a small classroom pilot to a statewide program.
Teachers reported that their students showed increased engagement and enthusiasm when learning through this creative format.
Each school year, students are invited to participate through their teachers or school outreach partners. Here’s how it typically works:
Step 1: Form Your Team
Middle school students in grades 6–8 can participate individually or in teams of up to five members.
Step 2: Create Your Parody
Produce a 1–3.5 minute video parody of a popular song, featuring original lyrics about geothermal energy.
Students must incorporate key vocabulary and answer questions like:
Step 3: Submit and Shine
Entries are judged on creativity, clarity, scientific accuracy, and adherence to contest rules. Winners receive recognition and prizes!
Classroom support often includes guest visits from engineers, field trips to geothermal plants, and lesson plans aligned to state science standards.
Check back later for the next opportunity to join the Geothermal Song Parody Contest.
If you’re an educator or student interested in bringing the contest to your classroom—or just want to learn more—contact the Utah FORGE outreach team below.
