Archive for January, 2012

Tin Foil Boat Challenge

Posted by dadams   |   January 21, 2012   |   Comment  Make a Comment »

On Friday, January 20, students in Physics 9 participated in a Tin Foil Boats challenge.

The class is currently studying the physical properties of the 3 major phases of matter. Recent content includes a study of buoyancy, fluid pressure and Archimedes’ Principle. To further explore these concepts, students were challenged to construct a vessel using only a 12″ by 12″ piece of aluminum foil to support as many pennies as possible.

Torque started the day posting a maximum penny load of 356 {approximately 890 grams}. Gravity put together a valiant effort, coming up with a maximum load of 187 pennies. The day ended with Inertia challenging Torque’s lead, 320, 325, 330, … sinking just shy of the mark with 331 pennies in their boat.

Several unique and original hull designs were proposed and tested. All students met the challenge with enthusiasm and determination. ~ Great work!!

Should we Prevent Sprawl?

Posted by dadams   |   January 21, 2012   |   Comment  8 Comments »

We are currently studying Urban Development in AP Environmental Science. The industry is shifting from a ‘design for automobiles’ approach to a PEOPLE centered focus on urban planning. Key factors include resource use and management, transportation, waste removal and food production. Students have read an article highlighting 2 side of the “Sprawl” debate. This post offers students an opportunity to discuss the issue through a virtual seminar.