The Linear Generator Invention Kit
Teacher Guide
The teacher package contains lesson plan documents to guide teachers through each kit and activity. In addition, everything required for constructing the invention kits is contain in this downloadable package. This includes materials, sourcing, tools, and CAD files for fabrication.
Download Teacher Guide Online Sourcing GuidePrior Knowledge
Science Content
The Linear Generator Invention Kit is scaffolded all the way down to the fundamentals of magnetism: polarity, attraction, and repulsion. Students should understand the basic functionality of a battery and common uses of electricity. Students should also be prepared to make qualitative and quantitative observations in a laboratory activity format.
Engineering Skills
This unit serves as an introduction to the engineering design process and utilizing digital fabrication tools. Prior to starting this unit, it will be useful for students to understand how to use 2D design software (MakerStudio by FableVision or Silhouette Studio) and operate a Silhouette Die Cutter. The technology skills in this unit can be taught in situ as students work through the laboratory activities and Design Challenge.
Time Allotment
Failure is an important part of the engineering design process. Therefore, it is important to allocate appropriate class time to allow students to brainstorm multiple solutions, design an optimal solution, and revise their strategy/design as they progress through the engineering and fabrication process.
For an engineering-only elective with 45 minute class periods, the following time allotment is suggested. This time allotment varies based on school scheduling, pedagogical style, and technology/resource availability.
Unit Breakdown | Time Allotted |
---|---|
Lab Activities 1-5 | 7 class periods |
Proposal for Design Challenge | 1 class period |
Design Challenge | 5 class periods |
Presentations | 1-2 class periods |
Essential Questions
How can scientific knowledge of electromagnetism be applied to create controlled motion?
How do constraints impact the design process?
Why is planning important in the engineering design process?
Key Concepts & Skills
Concepts
- Conductors & Insulators
- Magnetism
- Electricity
- Electromagnetism
Skills
- Soldering
- Making qualitative observations
- 2D Design (MakerStudio by FableVision or Silhouette Studio)
- Fabrication on Silhouette Die Cutter