Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the basic principles of physics and apply them to engineering and design on the computer.

Materials and Prep

• Computer with internet access
• Engineering and design software (e.g., Tinkercad, SketchUp)
• Pen and paper for note-taking

No prior knowledge is required for this lesson.

Activities

1. Introduction to Physics in Engineering

   Watch a video or read an article about how physics concepts are applied in engineering and design. Take notes on key points and examples.

2. Exploring Forces and Motion

   Use the engineering and design software to create a simple model of a moving object. Experiment with different forces, such as gravity and friction, to observe their effects on the motion of the object. Take screenshots or record your observations.

3. Understanding Energy and Work

   Research and identify examples of how energy is transformed and transferred in engineering and design. Discuss how work is done in these processes and how it relates to the concepts of energy and power.

4. Applying Principles to Design

   Choose a specific design project that interests you, such as building a bridge or designing a roller coaster. Use the engineering and design software to create a virtual prototype, considering the principles of physics you have learned. Explain how your design incorporates these principles.

Sixth Grade Talking Points

• "Physics is the branch of science that deals with matter, energy, and their interactions. It helps engineers and designers understand how things work and how to create new things."
• "Forces are pushes or pulls that can make objects move, change direction, or stop. They are important in engineering and design because they determine how structures and machines function."
• "Motion is the change in position of an object over time. It can be described in terms of speed, velocity, and acceleration. Engineers need to consider motion when designing vehicles, robots, and other moving objects."
• "Energy is the ability to do work. It can exist in different forms, such as mechanical, electrical, and thermal energy. Engineers use energy to power machines and systems."
• "Work is done when a force is applied to an object and causes it to move. It is calculated by multiplying the force applied by the distance moved. Engineers often need to calculate and optimize work in their designs."
• "Designing and building structures, vehicles, and other objects require engineers to apply the principles of physics. This ensures that the final product is safe, efficient, and functional."