Use the image to answer the question.

A horizontal bar graph shows the percentage of energy types used in Texas. The horizontal axis shows percentage ranging from 0 to 50 in increments of 10. The vertical axis shows the energy types. The graph shows the following approximate data: wind, 23 percent; nuclear, 10 percent; other, 1 percent; solar, 4 percent; coal, 19 percent; gas, 43 percent.

In 3–5 sentences, evaluate the impact of the five types of energy resources pictured on this graph: wind, nuclear, solar, coal, and gas. In order to avoid contributing to climate change, how would energy usage need to change?

(4 points)

Short Answer Rubric (4 points)
Points Awarded Criteria
4
The answer is very clear.

The answer is fully supported by details.

There may be a few errors in grammar, usage, or mechanics. Errors do not interfere with meaning.

3
The answer is mostly clear.

The answer is supported by mostly relevant details.

There are a few errors in grammar, usage, or mechanics. Errors do not interfere with meaning.

2
The answer is somewhat clear.

Details are weak or not related.

There are some errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Errors interfere with meaning.

1
The answer is not clear.

There are few or no supporting details.

There are many errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Errors interfere with meaning.

0 The question is not answered.

The graph shows that a significant portion of energy in Texas is derived from gas and coal, which are both significant contributors to climate change. In order to reduce the impact on climate change, there needs to be a shift towards renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and nuclear. Wind and solar are already making up a sizable portion of the energy mix, but more investment and support are needed to expand their usage. Nuclear energy can also provide a clean and reliable source of energy. By decreasing reliance on gas and coal and increasing the usage of renewable and clean energy sources, Texas can significantly reduce its impact on climate change.