Plan
| Week 1 |
Day 1
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Day 2
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Day 3
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Day 4
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Day 5
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Introduction to Project - Present the 'Catapult Kickoff Challenge' with a demonstration of a working catapult to spark interest and curiosity (20 min)
Brainstorming Session - Facilitate a discussion on the essential questions and brainstorming initial ideas about catapult functionality and design (30 min)
Lab Safety Training - Conduct a session on lab safety and measurement tools, emphasizing power tool safety and accurate data collection methods (35 min)
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Design Thinking Workshop - Guide students in identifying design constraints and discussing potential solutions for the catapult construction (45 min)
Material Exploration - Have students explore various materials and tools available for their catapult construction, emphasizing safety protocols (40 min)
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Computer-Aided Design Introduction - Conduct a tutorial on CAD software, focusing on creating digital models of catapult designs (40 min)
Design Iteration Practice - Have students practice iterative design processes using CAD software to refine their initial catapult concepts (45 min)
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Team Build Session - Organize teams to start constructing simple catapults using everyday materials, applying engineering design principles (50 min)
Newton's Laws Exploration - Facilitate a discussion on Newton's Laws of Motion and their application to catapult functionality (35 min)
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Prototype Testing - Guide students in testing their simple catapult prototypes, focusing on adjustments based on performance data (40 min)
Reflection and Feedback - Organize a peer review session for students to present their prototypes and receive constructive feedback (45 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. A basic catapult constructed from everyday materials during the 'Catapult Kickoff Challenge' on Day 1.
2. Completion of CAD tutorials and creation of a simple digital model by Day 3. 3. Initial digital catapult design created using CAD software by the end of Day 5. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather materials for the 'Catapult Kickoff Challenge' such as rubber bands, popsicle sticks, and plastic spoons.
2. Prepare lab safety equipment and materials for demonstrations, including power tools and measurement tools. 3. Set up computers with necessary CAD software and ensure all students have access. 4. Create a clear outline of the project's essential questions and constraints for presentation on Day 1. 5. Organize a list of resources for CAD tutorials and ensure they are accessible to students for Day 3. |
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| Week 2 |
Day 6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Advanced CAD Modeling - Guide students in finalizing their digital catapult models, focusing on detailed components and constraints adherence (40 min)
Physical Prototype Construction - Facilitate teams in starting the construction of their catapult using plywood, emphasizing power tool safety and precision (45 min)
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Construction Continuation - Support students in progressing with their catapult construction, ensuring all safety protocols are followed (50 min)
Newton's Laws Application - Conduct a hands-on activity to test and adjust their catapult prototypes for optimal launch distance and accuracy using Newton's Laws (35 min)
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Final Assembly and Testing - Assist teams in completing their catapult assembly and conducting initial launch tests, focusing on data collection for improvements (50 min)
Peer Feedback Session - Organize a session where students present their nearly completed catapults, receiving feedback on functionality and design (35 min)
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Revision and Refinement - Guide students in making necessary adjustments to their catapults based on test data and peer feedback (45 min)
Instruction Manual Drafting - Facilitate the creation of detailed instruction manuals using CAD drawings, highlighting design processes and safety practices (40 min)
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Launch Day Preparation - Help students prepare their catapults and presentations for the exhibition event, ensuring all components are ready and functional (40 min)
Exhibition and Reflection - Host the 'Launch Day' event where students demonstrate their projects and reflect on their learning journey and challenges faced (45 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Completed physical catapult prototype adhering to specified constraints.
2. Instruction manual created using CAD drawings, detailing the construction and design process. 3. Digital engineering journal documenting design iterations, testing data, and application of Newton's Laws. |
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| Preparation |
1. Ensure availability of plywood and all necessary construction materials and tools.
2. Set up a safe workspace with designated areas for each team to work on their catapult. 3. Organize CAD software access for any final design revisions. 4. Prepare a checklist and safety guidelines for power tool use during construction. 5. Arrange for any additional safety equipment needed, such as goggles and gloves. |
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