Engineering Design: Save the Astronaut
Students are introduced to the process of engineering with a scenario that engages them in solving a simple problem involving gravity and magnetism. The activity elicits and builds on students’ ideas about how to define a problem and develop a successful solution. The process of solving the problem is compared and contrasted with the work of scientists and engineers. Students then generate questions and define problems in their everyday lives.
Details at a Glance
- 1 Day | 1-2 ~50 minute class periods
- 1 Activity
- Accommodates unlimited classes, each with 8 groups of 4 students
- Meets our criteria for supporting literacy
- All materials are non-consumable
- Includes digital resources
- Developed in partnership with SEPUP
- Includes assessment
Scientific Concepts
Disciplinary Core Ideas
- Models of all kinds are important for testing solutions. (MS-ETS1.B Developing Possible Solutions)
Science and Engineering Practices
- Define a design problem that can be solved through the development of an object, tool, process, or system and includes multiple criteria and constraints, including scientific knowledge that may limit possible solutions. (Asking Questions and Defining Problems)
- Analyze and interpret data to determine similarities and differences in findings. (Analyzing and Interpreting Data)
- Create algorithms (a series of ordered steps) to solve a problem. (Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking)
Crosscutting Concepts
- Models can be used to represent systems and their interactions—such as inputs, processes, and outputs—and energy and matter flows within systems. (Systems and System Models)
Common Core State Standards—ELA/Literacy
- Integrate multimedia and visual displays into presentations to clarify information, strengthen claims and evidence, and add interest. (SL8.5)
Guides & Student Sheets
Our kits and modules provide you with everything you need so you can open, review, and teach the material confidently the next day.
- Comprehensive Teacher Guide with background information, detailed instruction, example data and answers
- Student Sheets with age appropriate background information, full procedure(s), and analysis items
- Materials necessary for the investigation (beyond common classroom items)
- Safety Data Sheets
Kit Components
- 16 Track, 22” section
- 16 Block, wooden
- 8 Ramp
- 8 Marble, steel
- 8 Wand, magnetic
- 8 Friction tool
- 8 Cloth, nylon
- 8 Cloth, wool
- 8 Cup, plastic
- Downloadable pdfs of student and teacher literature
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