Task:
You will build a simple vehicle that can cover 4 meters of distance on its own
power using potential energy.
Building your self-propelled vehicle
Building your self-propelled vehicle
- You must build
your vehicle from scrap materials. Don’t use a ready-made vehicle
- I will provide
some materials to use (rubber bands, popsicle sticks, etc) but you should
also look around your own house
- You are not
allowed to interfere with the movement of your vehicle. You cannot give
your vehicle a push as you launch it, and you cannot help it in any way as
it travels from the starting line to the finish line
- You cannot use
any form of electricity or the pull of gravity to move your vehicle. This
means that you cannot use a downhill ramp to get your vehicle started
- You may use a
“track” such as a toy car track or a string running from the starting line
to the finish line to guide your vehicle. Not only will this help reduce
friction, but it may also help you to keep your vehicle within the
boundaries
- Your vehicle does not have to move on the ground
Class Description
For the first semester we are going
to be focusing on energy. We will explore motion, force, electricity, sources
of energy, waves, and light. The class will be based on both hands-on and real
world applications and I encourage you to find examples of topics we cover in
the community around us.
Materials needed
1.
Both a pen (blue or black) and a pencil.
2.
Some sort of science notebook. It can be a
binder with pages in it, a composition notebook, or a spiral bound notebook.
Whatever works best for you.
3.
Tennis shoes. Sometimes we will take learning
outside, and sometimes we will be working with chemicals in the lab. Both
require closed toed, sensible shoes for safety. I will always inform you ahead
of time when these are needed.
4.
A sense of curiosity and excitement.
My expectations of you
1.
Respect. I expect you to be respectful of each
and every person in this school, the supplies you are working with, the
classroom where you learn, and the greater community in which you live.
2.
Safety. Working in a lab can be extremely
dangerous if you are not aware of your surroundings and following safety
procedures. Most rules I will have are because of safety, and if I ask you to
do something, or not to do something, it most likely is because of this as
well.
3.
Produce the best work you can. I know you are capable of amazing things.
4.
Be honest.
If you are confused, say so.
What you can expect from me
1.
I will treat you with respect.
2.
The class will be a safe place
3.
I will help you whenever you need help.
Lab Safety
1.
Wear closed toed shoes
2.
Tie back hair and loose clothing
3.
If you spill or break something, call me over
immediately
4.
Always follow procedure- do not conduct side
experiments
5.
Be aware of your surroundings.
6.
Listen to and follow all instructions
