Off the Rails (4th-5th)Forces and MotionGrades 4-5
Storyline
Using their knowledge of forces and motion, the crew will fend off pesky GAL-Delilahs that are disassembling train tracks in Taipan.
After RALF and his robotic friends go head-to-head with a swarm of a GAL-Delilahs, the crew will determine which of our forces are most in need of backup by analyzing balanced and unbalanced forces in action. Then, when tensions escalate and the GAL's raise up a track with a train on it, students will observe patterns in data to figure out how far the train will go if released from a certain height in order to decide where to put protection to keep the train from crashing.
Phenomenon
Patterns in motion can be observed and measured to predict future motion.
Science and Engineering Practices
Analyzing and Interpreting Data
Students are engaged in examining the information related to forces and motion and applying it to make informed decisions. In the first investigation, students are presented with data on the forces exerted by the GAL-Delilahs and the drones in a tug-of-war scenario.
Developing and Using Models
Students use a computer model to predict the train's motion based on the height of the tracks. Students use the model and corresponding data to determine where to place the HELP based on the data and the height of the tracks.
Crosscutting Concepts
Patterns
By observing the strengths of the GAL-Delilahs and the drones, students can predict the outcome of the struggle and identify where their intervention is needed.
Cause and Effect
By intervening in this situation, students can directly observe how their actions influence the outcome of the tug-of-war.
Systems and System Models
Throughout the mission, students observe several systems in action, such as the forces exerted by the GAL-Delilahs and the drones, as well as the motion of the train influenced by the height of the tracks.
Disciplinary Core Ideas
PS2.B: Types of Interactions
Objects in contact exert forces on each other.