Module #1 (Demoted): "Materials, Tools and Machines: From pig iron to Petronas Towers and back again"

Submitted by andrewstillman on Mon, 02/05/2007 - 4:44pm.

This module is meant to introduce students to the raw materials engineers work with and the "life cycle" concept of an engineered project.

Broad Concept: Appropriate materials, tools, and machines enable us to solve problems, invent, and construct.

1.1	Given a design task, identify appropriate materials (e.g., wood, paper, plastic, aggregates, ceramics, metals, solvents, adhesives) based on specific properties and characteristics (e.g., weight, strength, hardness, and flexibility).
1.2	Identify and explain appropriate measuring tools, hand tools, and power tools used to hold, lift, carry, fasten, and separate, and explain their safe and proper use.
1.3	Identify and explain the safe and proper use of measuring tools, hand tools, and machines (e.g., band saw, drill press, sanders, hammer, screwdriver, pliers, tape measure, screws, nails, and other mechanical fasteners) needed to construct a prototype of an engineering design.

Suggested Learning Activities

Conduct tests for weight, strength, hardness, and flexibility of various materials, e.g., wood, paper, plastic, ceramics, metals. (1.1)
Design and build a catapult that will toss a marshmallow the farthest. (1.1, 1.2, 1.3)
Use a variety of hand tools and machines to change materials into new forms through forming, separating, and combining processes, and processes that cause internal change to occur. (1.2)

Links to possible activities:

Columbia Secondary School - Engineering Curriculum Development Team Handbook