Balloon Racer Inquiry

Pacing = 6 Class Periods
Expected End Date =  23 February

Scientific Inquiry

Picture
Science is a way of understanding nature. Scientific research may begin by generating new scientific questions that can be answered through replicable scientific investigations that are logically developed and conducted systematically. Scientific conclusions and explanations result from careful analysis of empirical evidence and the use of logical reasoning. Some questions in science are addressed through indirect rather than direct observation, evaluating the consistency of new evidence with results predicted by models of natural processes. Results from investigations are communicated in reports that are scrutinized through a peer review process.
Standards Covered:
MS-PS1-6.
Undertake a design project to construct, test, and modify a device that either releases or absorbs thermal energy by chemical processes.
​
MS-ETS1-1.
Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientific principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment that may limit possible solutions.

MS-ETS1-2.
Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

MS-ETS1-3.
Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions to identify the best characteristics of each that can be combined into a new solution to better meet the criteria for success.

MS-ETS1-4.
Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved
Picture
CLICK HERE for Daily Classroom SlideDeck

14 February
​#1 Friction video reminder from Magic School Bus

Watch the video with the class or on your own if you are absent and complete the practice sheet to remind yourself what you already know about FRICTION. 
msb_plays_ball.pdf
File Size: 79 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

14 February
Balloon Car Construction Example

Big Ideas:
1.  Scientific questions can be investigated in the lab or in the field.  
2. Inquiry is a process to understand our world
Terms to Know:
-Speed 
-Distance
-Time

15-23 February
​Balloon Car Problem

Problem:
Create a balloon car that travels as far as possible using materials provided in class or on your own. 

Rules:
  1. 100% found materials
  2. Must be have minimum of three wheels
  3. Data Collection:
    1. Groups no larger than 2
    2. Minimum of three trials with data
    3. Pictures or sketches of testing set up
    4. Data Collected 
Assessment Points:
We will informally review during the engineering process and formally collect and assess upon completion the following components:
  1. Design 1 Planning Document
  2. Design 1 Draft Sketch (completed on back of planning document with materials listed, dimensions, etc)
  3. Design 1 Final Sketch (completed on back of planning document with materials listed, dimensions, etc)
  4. Design 1 Data Collection
  5. Design 2 Planning Document
  6. Design 2 Sketch (completed on back of planning document with materials listed, dimensions, etc)
  7. Design 2 Data Collection

Balloon Racers in action 

Photos of Balloon Car Design, Construction, Testing and Revision

STEPS TO FOLLOW

Time Line:
Step 1 (~45 min)
Project outline and understanding, rubric creation, complete the DESIGN 1 PLANING DOCUMENT
Step 2 (~45 min)
DESIGN 1 DRAFT SKETCH completed, signed off by teacher and construction begins
Step 3 (~60 min)
Construction completed and DESIGN 1 FINAL SKETCH completed, Design 1 Data Collection begins. You will collect Speed and Distance and solve for Speed. Review the "How to Calculate Speed" video below if needed. 
Step 4 (~60 min)
Design 1 Data Collection ends and REDESIGN begins using the DESIGN 2 PLANNING DOCUMENT document. Focus on what to improve and complete DESIGN 2 DRAFT SKETCH
Step 5 (~60 min)
Modifications completed and DESIGN 2 FINAL SKETCH completed, Design 2 Data Collection begins
Step 6 (~60 min)
Design 2 Data Collection completed. Rubric reviewed. DESIGN 3 may be completed if time allows. 

How to Calculate Speed