Core Skills Analysis
Science
- Learned about water as a source of power and its potential energy.
- Explored the concept of kinetic energy through the movement of the tug boat.
- Observed how water can be used to create motion in machines, introducing basic mechanics.
- Developed an understanding of how force can be applied via water flow to achieve a specific task.
Engineering
- Engaged in basic engineering concepts by constructing the water wheel.
- Experimented with design elements to improve efficiency and effectiveness of the water wheel.
- Gained insights into simple machines by understanding how gears and pulleys could work with water power.
- Learned about problem-solving techniques when conditions did not yield expected results.
Mathematics
- Introduced to basic counting by measuring the number of rotations of the water wheel.
- Developed spatial awareness through the design layout of the project.
- Observed relationships in size, volume, and distance while measuring water flow and tug boat movement.
- Practiced simple addition and subtraction related to time taken for the tug boat to move across distances.
Environmental Studies
- Explored the role of natural resources in creating sustainable energy.
- Discussed the importance of clean water and its impact on ecosystems.
- Identified ways to harness natural forces without causing harm to the environment.
- Learned about the water cycle and its relation to energy and ecology.
Tips
To further explore and improve this activity, the student could experiment with various designs of water wheels to see which is most effective in pulling the tug boat. They could additionally investigate the effects of water speed on the performance of the wheel, or discover how adding different weights to the tug boat influences movement. Exploring how the water wheel could be modified to create energy for other small projects would also be beneficial for understanding the broader applications of their design.
Book Recommendations
- Water Can Be... by Laura Purdie Salas: A beautifully illustrated book that explores the many forms and uses of water.
- The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba & Bryan Mealer: A true story of a boy who built a windmill to save his family and how innovation can lead to change.
- A Drop in the Ocean by Jacqueline Davies: A lovely tale that explains the importance of water conservation and the impact of every drop.