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In this activity, learners explore how engineers work to solve the challenges of a society, such as efficient planting and harvesting. Learners work in teams to devise a system using everyday materials that can drop a sunflower or pumpkin seed every 15 cm over a 60 cm distance. Teams sketch their plans, build their system, test it, reflect on the challenge, and present their experiences to the group.
- Under 5 minutes
- 1 to 2 hours
- Over $20 per group of students
- Ages 8 - 18
- Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- Student Resource Sheets
- Student Worksheets
- Pumpkin or sunflower seeds (food quality)
- Cotton batting or towel to serve as "soil"
- Measuring tape
- Paper cups
- Plastic cups or bowls
- Empty cans or bottles
- Straws
- Paper towels
- Rubber bands
- Paper clips
- Tape
- Soda bottle
- Glue
- String
- Foil
- Plastic wrap
- Pens
- Pencils
- Paper
- Bendable metal piping
- Hose or tubes
- Ruler
- Other items as needed
Subjects
-
Engineering and Technology
-
Engineering
- Agricultural Engineering
-
Technology
- Agriculture and Biotechnology
-
Engineering
-
Life Sciences
-
Diversity of Life
- Plants
-
Diversity of Life
-
Physical Sciences
-
Motion and Forces
- Machines
-
Motion and Forces
-
The Nature of Science
- Science as a Career
-
The Nature of Technology
-
Technology and Society
- Impacts of Technology
- Technology and the Environment
-
The Design Process
- Research and Development
- Invention and Innovation
- Problem Solving
- Troubleshooting and Maintenance
-
Technology and Society
Informal Categories
- Gardening
- Nature and Environment
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- read
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves teamwork and communication skills
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Components that are part of this resource:
Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Rights:
- All rights reserved, IEEE,