This post details how to run the one-session version of the electricity-focused variant of the Wind Turbine module. For the other other versions , as well as the mechanical variants, see the Overview Post.
This post details how to run the two-session version of the electricity-focused variant of the Wind Turbine module. For the other other versions , as well as the mechanical variants, see the Overview Post.
Wind Turbine Module – Electric Version: Wind turbines that generate electricity require greater monetary investment, but provide for a wider range of experimentation. Students test blades, premade or of their own design, adjusting parameters to maximize electrical output.
Alternative energy topics are both popular and relatable with children. This versatile engineering module — containing both electrical and mechanical variants — focuses on wind turbine blade development, which provides an excellent platform for teaching concepts of experimental design. Subtle changes in blade configuration often yield dramatic results that excite the youngsters and encourage them to investigate further.
This module introduces the concepts and techniques of titration. Children will employ this knowledge to determine the relative strengths of acidic and basic solutions by titration using very simple equipment and solve a variety of challenge scenarios.
Many balances familiar to students, such as bathroom or grocery store scales are examples of spring balances. Hooke’s Law defines the relationship between the force applied to a spring or other elastic material to the distance it stretches or compresses. In this module, students will set up and conduct experiments to test the validity of the relationship.
This fast-paced engineering problem solving exercise is a favorite with elementary school students. It’s also inexpensive, easy to teach, quantitative, can accommodate a lot of kids, and is easy to adjust the difficulty of.
“Storm the Castle” is an exercise in engineering problem solving that’s loads of fun for children of all ages. Students take on the role of “besieging armies”, designing siege engines capable of launching “boulders” (ping pong balls) into the defending castle, earning points depending on where the balls land. They also design a device to retrieve containers of boulders from the “quarry”.
This two-part activity introduces children to basic bridge types and design considerations. Students then put this knowledge into practice, designing and building strong-but-light bridges and the tallest towers!
Paper chromatography is a technique for separating out components in a mixture, such as for testing the purity of compounds. In this module, Kidizen scientists will study the composition and separation behaviors of a variety marker types and colors. They will then employ this knowledge and their chromatography skills to identify the various mystery markers from their inks alone!