A
dvance Preparation
• Place one or more balances or scales in a designated area where teams can measure the
mass of their prototypes during
CREATE/TEST/IMPROVE
and
EVALUATE/COMMUNICATE
.
• Prepare one or more low temperature testing areas. Fill a large container, such as a
plastic or foam ice chest, a large plastic container, or a large sink, approximately half
full with ice. If salt or rock salt is available, add generously to the ice to lower the
temperature in the testing area. If possible, keep the testing area covered to reduce
melting. Place a thermometer or temperature probe in the ice to record the external
temperature of the testing area. (Teams will place a second thermometer or temperature
probe inside the prototype to measure the internal temperature.) Place a timer in each
testing area.
Ti
p:
Check the ice level frequently and replace as needed.
• Prepare one or more high temperature testing areas. The maximum testing temperature
will depend on the materials available for testing. If possible, use a container similar
to the low temperature testing area, such as a plastic or foam ice chest, a large plastic
container, or a large sink. Position one or more heat lamps over the testing area to raise
the air temperature as much as possible. Place a thermometer or temperature
probe in the testing area to measure the external temperature. (Teams will place a second
thermometer or temperature probe inside the prototype to measure the internal temperature.)
Place a timer in each testing area. Post a sign to remind students of safety guidelines.
Ti
p:
Turn the lamp(s) on in advance so the testing area is warm before teams
begin testing. Keep lamps on continuously during testing.
• If possible, test the hot and cold testing areas in advance. Make adjustments to the
testing areas and/or timing as needed.
S
uggested Time Frame
•
ASK
,
IMAGINE
, and
PLAN
:
1–2 hours; may be broken down over one or more class periods
Research
(not more than 60 minutes)
Explore the materials
(about 5 minutes)
Sketch and plan independently
(about 10 minutes)
Reach team consensus on final design
(about 10–15 minutes)
•
CREATE
/
TEST/IMPROVE
:
30–60 minutes
•
EVALUATE/COMMUNICATE
:
10–20 minutes
for testing prototypes
3–5 minutes
for each presentation
5–10 minutes
for reflection
5 minutes
to complete rubric
The amount of time needed for this challenge may vary depending on your students’
research skills and findings.
