11th Grade  Project 1 week

Egg-citing Impact Survival Challenge!

Melissa K
HS-PS2-3
Productive Collaborator
Critical Thinker
Effective Communicator
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Purpose

This project aims to engage students in the practical application of physics concepts related to momentum and impulse through a hands-on design challenge. By constructing a protective container for an egg, students will explore engineering principles and collaborate to develop innovative solutions within budget constraints. The experience is designed to foster critical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork, as students analyze data from their tests and refine their designs to minimize impact forces. Through this real-world scenario, students will deepen their understanding of collision dynamics and the importance of safety engineering.

Learning goals

Students will apply scientific principles to design and evaluate a device that reduces the impact force on a raw egg during a collision, fulfilling the Next Generation Science Standards HS-PS2-3. They will collaborate effectively, engaging in active listening and empathy to achieve a common goal within their teams. Through critical thinking, students will make informed decisions and construct solutions supported by evidence from testing data. Additionally, they will communicate their ideas clearly, using both spoken and written formats to share their design process and results with diverse audiences.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-PS2-3 - Apply scientific and engineering ideas to design, evaluate, and refine a device that minimizes the force on a macroscopic object during a collision.
Competencies
  • Productive Collaborator - Engages with others to achieve a common goal through building positive relationships, actively listening, showing empathy, and making individual contributions to a larger group.
  • Critical Thinker - Thinks deeply and makes informed decisions to create solutions or new understanding supported by relevant and reliable evidence.
  • Effective Communicator - Engages diverse audiences respectfully by exchanging ideas and information responsibly, listening actively, speaking and writing clearly, and using print and digital media appropriately.

Products

Students will collaboratively design and construct a protective container that effectively minimizes impact force on a raw egg during a collision, using a combination of cushioning materials and structural supports. Each team will produce a detailed sketch and budget plan before acquiring materials, ensuring strategic resource allocation. The final product will be tested through an egg drop exhibition, where students will demonstrate their engineering solutions and analyze the results. Additionally, students will write a reflection analyzing how their design reduces force impact on the egg, supported by evidence from their testing data.

Launch

Begin the project with an engaging video that explores the physics of car crashes, highlighting real-world applications of impulse and momentum. Follow the video with a class discussion to connect these concepts to the egg drop challenge, prompting students to consider how engineers design safety features in vehicles. Encourage students to brainstorm initial ideas for their protective container designs, fostering collaboration and critical thinking from the outset.

Exhibition

Students will showcase their egg protection devices during a live egg drop testing event in front of the class. Each team will present their design, explaining the materials used and the rationale behind their choices. After the drop tests, students will discuss the results, sharing insights and lessons learned from the experience. This exhibition will allow students to demonstrate their understanding of physics concepts and engineering principles, while engaging in peer feedback and reflection.