Pushing and PullingForces and MotionKindergarten
Storyline
The crew will use their knowledge of pushing and pulling to help Dr. Marvin place satellites back into the correct orbit.
The crew will need to determine whether the satellite needs to be pushed or pulled to get in the right orbit. Then, with a second satellite, students will watch footage of it being pushed into position. They'll need to conclude that what went wrong then correct its position.
Phenomenon
Pushing and pulling forces affect the movement and behavior of objects.
Science and Engineering Practices
Planning and Carrying Out Investigations
The crew analyzes the satellite's positions and orbital paths, determining whether pushing or pulling is required to restore them.
Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions
The crew uses the tractor beam and defense systems to push and pull the satellites, finding solutions to align them correctly.
Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
The crew watches footage to analyze and understand what went wrong in previous attempts, informing their decision-making.
Crosscutting Concepts
Cause and Effect
The crew explores the consequences of pushing and pulling the satellites, observing how the direction and force applied affect their positions.
Systems and System Models
The crew uses the tractor beam and defense systems as models to interact with and manipulate the satellites.
Disciplinary Core Ideas
ETS1.A: Defining and Delimiting Engineering Problems
The crew identifies the problem of misaligned satellites and works on solutions to restore their proper positions.
PS2.B: Types of Interactions
The crew engages in interactions with the satellites using the tractor beam and defense systems to exert forces and move them.
PS3.C: Relationship Between Energy and Forces
The crew utilizes non-explosive energy bursts and the tractor beam's energy to push and pull the satellites.