Water Wheel Engineering Concepts

Michael Despo introduces changes in science education, emphasizing the importance of elevating engineering to the same status as other sciences. He presents an activity to build a water wheel using pasta, clay, and a paper clip. The video guides students through designing, building, and testing the water wheel, encouraging creativity and problem-solving. The process involves selecting materials, constructing the wheel, and developing a support system. The video concludes with a call to engage in the engineering design process.

What is one of the major changes occurring in Science Education today?

• Reducing the importance of physical science

• Increased focus on mathematics

• Elevating engineering to the same status as other sciences

• More emphasis on history

What is the first step students should take when starting the water wheel activity?

• Build the water wheel

• Test the water wheel

• Sketch a design of the water wheel

• Select the materials

Which type of pasta is suggested to be used as the hub for the water wheel?

• Spaghetti

• Penne

• Fusilli

• Wagon Wheel pasta

What is used to attach the pasta paddles to the pasta wheel?

• Glue

• Waterproof clay

• Tape

• String

What is the purpose of the paper clip in the water wheel construction?

• To hold the water

• To function as the axle

• To act as the hub

• To serve as the paddles

What is the first step in constructing the water wheel?

• Attach the paddles to the hub

• Fill the container with water

• Bend the paper clip into a straight line

• Sketch the design

How is the paper clip secured to the cup?

• Using tape

• By placing it in holes punched into the cup

• With glue

• By tying it with string

What is the purpose of the downward-facing bends in the paper clip?

• To hold the water

• To attach the paddles

• To lock the paper clip into the cup

• To make it look decorative

What should students do after constructing their water wheel?

• Paint it

• Leave it as it is

• Test it and re-engineer if necessary

• Throw it away

What is the ultimate goal of the water wheel activity?

• To engage in the engineering design process

• To learn about different pasta types

• To make a mess with water

• To create a perfect water wheel