Engineering - Teacher Pages

Subject - Physics       

Grade Level - Middle School

Objectives

• To make accurate measurements using the metric system
• To list and describe the forces acting on various types of structures
• To design, test and asses various structures for strength and endurance
• To assess the avoidable an unavoidable limits of a technological design

Activities:

Hook:   Using an 8 ½  x  11  piece of paper, and 30 cm of masking tape build the tallest free-standing tower possible.  The tower cannot be taped to the table.  The paper may be cut.  Just remember once it's cut it can't be uncut.

As students are building, discuss what works and what doesn't, offer possible suggestions as to why. 

Note that the strongest structural shape is a triangle

It is important to build on a good foundation.

As the tower gets higher, it also adds weight which needs to be supported.

Paper is not a very rigid material - what materials might be better to use in building.

Extension - Being by having individuals do the tower, then work in pairs, then groups.  OR  Have the students try again after working a tower.  If students start over be sure that you collect the paper and tape from the first tower and give them a fresh sheet of paper and another 30 cm of tape. 

Straw Structures 
Please note:  it is best to use non-bendable straws.  These are available in some grocery stores - you may need to look around.

Geodesic Dome
Be sure to get the handout - it contains the step by step instructions for building the dome.  This dome is quite large, and requires approximately 4-8 people to complete the construction.  Following directions is key.  Keep the newspaper roles as tight as possible, measure accurately, and label long and short in a way that is clearly - visible to aid in construction.

Mobile Forces
This activity integrates engineering, science, math and art.  Also included is an alternative mobile design for younger students.

Assessment:  End time with a discussion (oral or written) that allows the student to compare forces acting on towers and domes, how are they similar, how are they different.  Also discuss how understanding the forces on a mobile will help in designing a structure as a tower or dome. 
Hands-on Assessment - Build a new tower using a sheet of paper and 30 cm of tape - applying all ideas learned in lesson.

Additional on-line resources: 

PBS - Building Big

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/buildingbig/

Explores large structures and what it takes to build them.  Bridges, Domes, Skyscrapers, Dams and Tunnels.  Includes interactive labs, online building challenges, a look at many of these structures as well as who builds them.  Includes an educators guide with hands-on activities.  Check your local library for Building Big by David Macaulay as well the building big videos.    

Domed Stadium

http://www.reachoutmichigan.org/funexperiments/agesubject/lessons/newton/dome.html

Explore what keeps inflated stadiums up.  Discussion guide and hands on activity related to the Metrodome

Science Italian Style:  Fixing the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

http://www.pbs.org/safarchive/4_class/45_pguides/pguide_503/4553_pisa.html#act1

Activity and discussion centered around the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

SWE Internet Activities Center

http://www.swe.org/iac/index.html

The Society of Women Engineers provides a guide to internet activities, lesson plans, and a guide to sharing with girls.  Explores several engineering fields including civil, mechanical, electrical, aeronautical and more.