This lesson teaches the engineering method for testing wherein one variable is …
This lesson teaches the engineering method for testing wherein one variable is changed while the others are held constant. Students compare the performance of a single paper airplane design while changing the shape, size and position of flaps on the airplane. Students also learn about control surfaces on the tail and wings of an airplane.
Students visualize and interact with concepts already learned, specifically algebraic equations and …
Students visualize and interact with concepts already learned, specifically algebraic equations and solving for unknown variables. They construct a balancing seesaw system (LEGO® Balance Scale) made from LEGO MINDSTORMS® parts and digital components to mimic a balancing scale. They are given example algebraic equation problems to analyze, configure onto the balance scale, and evaluate by manipulating LEGO pieces and gram masses that represent terms of an equation such as unknown variables, coefficients and integers. Digital light sensors, built into the LEGO Balance Scale, detect any balance or imbalances displayed on the balancing scale. The LEGO Balance Scale interactively issues a digital indication of balance or imbalance within the system. If unbalanced, students continue using the LEGO Balance Scale until they are confident in their understanding of solving algebraic equations. The goal is for students to become confident in solving algebraic equations by fundamentally understanding the basics of algebra and real-world algebraic applications.
Students use the scientific method to determine the effect of control surfaces …
Students use the scientific method to determine the effect of control surfaces on a paper glider. They construct paper airplanes (model gliders) and test their performance to determine the base characteristics of the planes. Then they change one of the control surfaces and compare the results to their base glider in order to determine the cause and effect relationship of the control surfaces.
This is a digital sort of terms for equations and expressions. Students …
This is a digital sort of terms for equations and expressions. Students are able to sort terms the teacher provides, the given equation, and create their own equation. https://jamboard.google.com/d/1xT6VfZwn38OcLnmGz2OsX29ci6jbmN4iCrtqo7JgPT4/copy?usp=sharing
This activity is designed to be a self-paced activity to review students …
This activity is designed to be a self-paced activity to review students on the parts of Experimental Design while at home or in the classroom. There is a simple experiment for the students to complete to generate and collect data and a second example in which they design their own experiment and collect data. They are then led through the process of analyzing their data and writing a conclusion.
Working as a team, students discover that the value of pi (3.1415926...) …
Working as a team, students discover that the value of pi (3.1415926...) is a constant and applies to all different sized circles. The team builds a basic robot and programs it to travel in a circular motion. A marker attached to the robot chassis draws a circle on the ground as the robot travels the programmed circular path. Students measure the circle's circumference and diameter and calculate pi by dividing the circumference by the diameter. They discover the pi and circumference relationship; the circumference of a circle divided by the diameter is the value of pi.
This activity can be used as an introduction to using the scientific …
This activity can be used as an introduction to using the scientific method. It is relevant at all intermediate and high school levels( 6-12). Paper towels are used to introduce the basic steps of the scientific method and how it can be used to determine which type of paper towel is the most absorbent. Students will then use the scientific method to evaluate another property of the paper towel (e.g., strength, softness, etc).
This activity can be used as an introduction to using the scientific …
This activity can be used as an introduction to using the scientific method. It is relevant at all intermediate and high school levels( 6-12). Paper towels are used to introduce the basic steps of the scientific method and how it can be used to determine which type of paper towel is the most absorbent. Students will then use the scientific method to evaluate another property of the paper towel (e.g., strength, softness, etc).
This activity can be used as an introduction to using the scientific …
This activity can be used as an introduction to using the scientific method. It is relevant at all intermediate and high school levels( 6-12). Paper towels are used to introduce the basic steps of the scientific method and how it can be used to determine which type of paper towel is the most absorbent. Students will then use the scientific method to evaluate another property of the paper towel (e.g., strength, softness, etc).
This activity can be used as an introduction to using the scientific …
This activity can be used as an introduction to using the scientific method. It is relevant at all intermediate and high school levels( 6-12). Paper towels are used to introduce the basic steps of the scientific method and how it can be used to determine which type of paper towel is the most absorbent. Students will then use the scientific method to evaluate another property of the paper towel (e.g., strength, softness, etc).
Students use a simple seesaw to visualize solving a two- or three-step …
Students use a simple seesaw to visualize solving a two- or three-step mathematics equation, while solving a basic structural engineering weight balance problem in the process. They solve two-step equations on a worksheet and attempt to solve the challenge of "balancing a beam" through hands-on problems. The use of sensor equipment for correct position monitoring aids students in balancing the structure, as well as balancing the equation as they solve it on paper.
Students work as engineers to design and test trebuchets (in this case …
Students work as engineers to design and test trebuchets (in this case LEGO® MINDSTORMS® robots) that can launch objects. During the testing stage, they change one variable at a time to study its effect on the outcome of their designs. Specifically, they determine how far objects travel depending on their weights. As students learn about the different components of robot design and the specific function controls, they determine what design features are important for launching objects.
This resource is a simple note catcher for students to record definitions …
This resource is a simple note catcher for students to record definitions and example of independent variable, dependent variable, constant, and control. This could be coupled with an experiment or demonstration.
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