This STC/MS unit on technological design provides opportunities to explore both physical science and design concepts. Students investigate several forms of energy, starting with a simple, student-made storage battery, and the use of energy to do work and produce motion. The simple machines investigated include inclined planes, levers, and pulleys. The mechanical advantage and efficiency measurements for each machine is determined through student experimentation. The unit culminates in a challenge for students to apply physical science concepts in designing a device to accomplish a task within certain constraints.

Teacher’s Guide (TG) Module Overview
Student Guide (SG) Table of Contents
National Science Education Standards Addressed in Energy, Machines & Motion
Sample TG Lesson
Sample SG Lesson
To Order

Back to units page 

Electrical Energy and Circuit Design

Students design electrical circuits to transmit information about the state of a system, such as an alarm or warning device. They have an opportunity to design an electrical device that uses feedback to monitor and control a variable, such as a thermostatic temperature control system.

Teacher’s Guide (TG) Module Overview
Student Guide (SG) Table of Contents
National Science Education Standards Addressed in Electrical Energy and Circuit Design
Sample TG Lesson
Sample SG Lesson
To Order

Back to units page