Design Technology Physical Science Project

"Worms Gone Wild Vehicle"

Rationale

Context:

The Design Technology Physical Science Project “Worms Gone Wild Vehicle” can be used in a sixth grade science class.  I worked with Chris Dennis and Samantha Gibson on the Design Technology Physical Science Project.  The “Worms Gone Wild Vehicle” was created at Appalachian State University under the advisement of Jeff Goodman, Elementary Education Block II instructor.  I completed the “Worms Gone Wild Vehicle” as a requirement for CI- 3543, Elementary Science Methods. 

The Design Technology Physical Science Project had Chris Dennis, Samantha Gibson, and I create Recreating Vermin Rolling Vehicle proposal.  The proposal included construction details of the “Worms Gone Wild Vehicle”, description of the procedure used to test the car, data tables with testing results, graphs illustrating results, and a conclusion explaining the best ramp height for the “Worms Gone Wild Vehicle”.

Impact:

The Design Technology Physical Science Project “Worms Gone Wild Vehicle” is an extraordinary way to teach students about technology, importance of design, teamwork, and energy.  Through the Design Technology Physical Science Project, I learned how to teach Microsoft Excel to students.  Microsoft Excel allows students to create graphs and formulas to calculate the average distance, time, and velocity.  This project also teaches children the importance of reliable data and results.  Students whose learning style is more hands on would benefit from completing The Design Technology Physical Science Project because majority of the activity is hands on with critical thinking skills in the construction of the projects’ vehicle.

Alignment:

            This assignment aligns with the following DPI program Standards:

Standard 3: Elementary teachers have a broad knowledge and understanding of the major concepts in science.

*     Indicator 2: The Design Technology Physical Science Project “Worms Gone Wild Vehicle” demonstrates the following forms of energy potential, kinetic, and sound energy.  This project also demonstrates transformation of energy.

Standard 15: Elementary teachers encourage underrepresented groups to engage in the schooling process, especially math and science.

*     Indicator 1: The Design Technology Physical Science Project “Worms Gone Wild Vehicle” uses real-world applications when constructing a vehicle that rolls using axles and wheels.