Arches and Squares lesson plan

Specific Learner Expectations: 3-8-3 Describe the properties of some common solids such as wood, paper and plastic that make them suitable for use as building materials. 3-8-4 Apply procedures to test the strength of construction materials, in particular, different stocks of papers, plastic or wood. 3-8-5 Apply procedures to test different designs. Objectives: The student will… Engage in an activity that compares an arch shape to a square shape in order to see similarities and differences in the strengths and weaknesses of the design. Understand the arch shape is a strong shape and is used in many construction projects, such as bridges. Review: What is a fair test? (3-5 minutes) Activity: Arches and Squares (25-30 minutes) Using SMART Notes begin lesson with the Lesson 3 slide. You’ve got mail! Reveal the task to students hidden in the envelope. Explain that they have been asked to help the contractor that is faced with some options for a building design. They will have to test the different designs that the contractor might use in order to make construction the safest and most effective. Explain what hypothesis means: an educated guess about what will happen and why. Usually “I think…because…”. Go through the materials with the students and make sure they are all present and available for the activity. Go through the procedure with the students and answer any questions. (this is on the google doc) This is an INDIVIDUAL activity. students will have a google docs called ‘Arches and Squares’. Do this activity as a walk through so they get their bearings of what is expected of them. Have the students fill in the hypothesis on the worksheet. Hand out remaining materials. Begin the procedure. Which shape is stronger? (10-12 minutes) Go through SMART slides about the strengths of arches and why. SMART NOTES are on this website: http://misswilkie.wikispaces.com/Grade+3+Science