Mrs. Bennett
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We will be studying the
Physical Science Unit. In this unit, students explore
how heat affects matter. Students discover how matter changes state, how
solutions are formed, how chemical reactions are described, and the
properties of acids and bases. Students also explore how objects move and
stop and describe |
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In our
technology lab we have 30 modules that operate on the law of 2 by 7...this
means that there are two students who work together for 7 days in the same
module as partners. Each pair completes a Module Guide on Day one of the
Rotation that pertains to their own module. On day two through day five, each
pair answers three questions called Research Challenge and Application or
RCA'S. Each question is worth ten points on the first attempt and five points
on the second attempt, zero on the third. On day six
the pair use a game format to study for the Post Test
that follows on day seven. On the eighth day, the entire class comes together
for a wrap up or discovery day.
This semester we are
planning to complete ten rotations of seven days.
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The modules that 7th graders
complete are:
Forces-In this module, students explore forces
and how they affect the motion of objects. Students learn to describe and measure
the motion of objects by completing distance, time, speed, velocity, and
measurement activities. They explore the pushes and pulls of forces that cause
motion.
Graphic Communications-While exploring Computer Aided
Drafting, students learn the fundamentals of drafting and communication of
technical information. Students learn the related tools needed to complete
orthographic projections. They will demonstrate knowledge of design and
measurement after completing this module.
CADD-In this module students use
computer-aided drafting software to explore the fundamentals of drafting.
Students use CAD
software to create multiview drawings of a geometric
solid. Finally, students use the CAD software to complete and evaluate a floor
plan.
Digital Design-This module introduces student to the
principles of design that lead to effective visual communication. Principles to
be considered when assembling a graphic layout are presented. The module also
addresses the process involved and the psychology used when creating design and
layout. Students learn how correct usage of the various
elements leave the reader with a clear understanding of the intended
message.
Flight Technology-By constructing an airfoil and testing
it in a Synergistic wing tester, students learn the principles of flight. They
use video segments, computer software, and other research media to learn about
flight and other aerodynamic principles. Students use a flight simulator and
fly a plane on a computer to see and experience actual flight techniques.
Engineering Bridges-Students create and design a bridge
with the use of Synergistic video segments and design worksheets. They learn
the relationships between design, structure, and strength of a bridge. By
building a bridge and testing its strength on a structure tester, students
learn valuable engineering concepts and principles.
Computer Graphics and
Animation-Students
learn how the use of computers can enhance the products created by professional
artists and animators. With the use of a computer and related software, the
students produce their own cartoon and animated sequences. Students use a
digital movie camera to video capture a picture and create an animated project.
Exploring video graphic design is also part of this module.
Electronics-This module involves learning the
common components of basic circuits in electronic devices. Using a soldering
iron, students construct circuits on an educational instrument and identify the
components used after completing a computer software program.
Weather-This module begins from a global
perspective by including circulation and weather patterns and moves to local
weather system investigation. Students explore elements of weather systems
including frontal boundaries, unequal pressure areas, basic and severe weather.
They also keep daily recordings of basic weather data such as temperature,
pressure, and wind directions and have an opportunity to experiment with
weather forecasting.
Research and Design-By designing, manufacturing, and racing
a model CO2-powered dragster car, students learn the relevance of design. They
learn the concepts and terms in the design process as well as gain an
understanding of lift and drag on an object.
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The modules that 8th graders
complete are:
Audio Broadcasting-By creating their own radio broadcasts,
students learn about radio stations and their various formats. They use a sound
mixer, CD player, and audio tapes to write and assemble a commercial broadcast.
Students also learn about sports broadcasting and news segments.
Video Production-Using computer, video camera and
editing equipment, students explore the facets of video production and
communication. They write, storyboard, schedule, produce and edit their video
production. Students also explore the effect of media in their own lives.
Applied Physics-Using an air track, students learn the
laws of inertia, study energy transfer, and calculate the velocity of air track
cars by using a photogate timer. This module is used
to study data transmission with the use of a laser. Students also learn about
radio waves, light and heat, and do experiments relating to mathematics.
Energy, Power and Mechanics-Exploring the uses of energy sources,
principles of power, and hydraulics are all parts of this module. Using
Synergistic educational instruments, students learn the fundamentals of gears,
fluid mechanics and three classes of levers. Students use a solar hot dog
cooker and experience the concept of wind power generated energy by performing
a hands-on activity with equipment.
Robotics-Industries have been revolutionized by
the advent of the robot. Students utilize and program a robot to understand and
explore the many uses of a robot in industry. Using a robot, students learn
many aspects of manipulation and the advantages of robotics in automation.
Digital Manufacturing-Activities representative of a digital
manufacturing process are highlighted in this module. Students see a brief
history of manufacturing evolving into Computer-Aided Drafting, Computer-Aided
Machining, and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing. An understanding of primary
and secondary processing and the Cartesian coordinate system leads to the
production of a product using a digital manufacturing process.
Practical Skills-Having the skills to perform small
"fix it" jobs around the house can not only save you money, but also
provide a sense of self-satisfaction. Just knowing that you were able to
troubleshoot the situation, develop a solution, and then implement that
solution can be very rewarding.
Research and Design-By designing, manufacturing, and racing
a model CO2-powered dragster car, students learn the relevance of design. They
learn the concepts and terms in the design process as well as gain an
understanding of lift and drag on an object.
Simple Machines-Using the computer and hands-on
activities, students explore how work, force, energy, and machines make moving objects
easier. Students use variables and equations to describe the principles of
simple machines. They also use simple machines to design a compound machine to
move objects.
Animals-Using computer software and hands-on
activities, students explore the five classes of vertebrate, which include
mammals, fish, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. After completing research, students use
computer software to create an animal Web site. Students also learn about
vertebrate structures and functions.
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The modules the 7th and 8th
graders complete in life skills are:
Baking and Measurement-The human body needs fuel, and food is it.
This and other aspects of nutrition are examined in this module. Energy for
daily activities and healthy food are also explored. Preparing a nutritious
meal for five using a convection microwave oven is one activity students
complete. Students also use a computer to put together recipes, evaluate
nutrition and ingredient requirements, and complete a baking activity.
Breakfast Nutrition-Using a computer program, students
calculate the nutritional value of cereal. Students prepare several nutritious
breakfast foods. Learning about fast food, cleanup, and math correlation and
exploring the benefits of eating natural versus processed foods are also parts
of this module.
Microwave Cooking-The microwave oven is a device that has
profoundly affected our daily lives. From cooking to cleaning, this module
explores the correct and proper usage of the microwave oven. Students learn the
advantages of microwave cooking versus conventional cooking and also prepare
several recipes.
Careers-Because they typical American worker
changes jobs approximately every seven year, students learn the importance of
career opportunities and the educational and training requirements they impose.
Using a CD-ROM, students explore their own interests and the educational
requirements and college opportunities that relate to those interests.
Sewing and Design-In this module, students create a
pillow. They use a hand stitch to quilt the design and a sewing machine to
construct their pillow.
Electricity-Learning the principles of electricity
and drawing a schematic of a parallel circuit are all part of this module.
Students complete a wiring project educational instrument, create a series and
parallel circuit as well as classify conductors and insulators. They use a
voltage and ohm meter as well as a magnetic educational instrument. Students
also measure voltage, resistance, and current during the module activities.
Entrepreneurship: Child
Care-Taking
of baby sitting responsibilities requires a great deal of knowledge. Through
the uses of a baby sitting job experience simulation, students learn
responsibility, first aid, child care, expectations of employers, child
activities, and payment options. Using a computer, students build a portfolio
for use in a real life baby sitting experience.
Personal Finance-Through the use of computer software
programs, video segments, and hand-on activities, students explore the
financial world in which they live. By constructing a budget, students learn
about money management. Students also learn about related careers as well as
concepts of simple and compound interest. By opening a checking account and
managing a financial account for a small business, students learn about the
importance of money and good sound money management.
Interior Designs-This module explores the principles of
design from interior design to color coordination, to floor plans, home
furnishings, and budgeting for remodeling. Students learn about the
relationships between material costs and personal choices by creating a cost proposal
for a remodeling project. They also learn about formal and informal balancing
in home decorating.
Life
Skills-This
module deals with some of the tough issues facing teens today, including
stress, peer pressure, and self esteem. Students also study the effects of issues on people and learn how
to strengthen relationships and deal with the various types of relationships
that exist.
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