iSTE(A)M
Engineering & Tech
what we learned
what we learned
Experiments We Loved
During our “Leaning Tower of Pasta” experiment our scientists were trying to build the tallest structure only using marshmallows and spaghetti. STEAM Connection: Engineers are always trying to build stable structures in the most effective way possible. When designing bridges, buildings, foundations, and so on, knowing which shapes are the strongest results in structures that can hold more weight and remain more stable.
We built “Paper Airplanes” and learned all about streamlined design and different airplane parts. STEAM Connection: Engineers need to consider the many aspects of flight when they are designing things that fly. Different changes in the design of an airplane can totally change what the plane can do! A plane built for doing tricks in the air is more different than a plane built for carrying lots of passengers and we learned how and why.
During the “Oily Oceans” experiment, we learned what happens when oil spills in water and how spills are effectively cleaned. STEAM Connection: Cleaning up oil spills in the ocean is a very difficult task. While some chemists are working to develop more effective ways of cleaning up crude oil, other scientists are working on creating more renewable sources of energy so that we don’t run the risk of spilling oil and endangering eco systems.
Experiments We Loved
During our “Catapults” experiment our scientists learned all about energy and Newton's Three Laws. We explored the difference between Potential and Kinetic energies and how that affects our catapult. STEAM Connection: Catapults relate to a lot of military defence. Catapults and Sports Science especially in the Olympic Games are related to the mechanics and engineering of humans’ bodies and powers.
During our “Egg Drop Challenge” experiment our scientists learned how gravity affects objects and what can be done to reduce it's force. STEAM Connection: Gravity is the force that pulls the egg down. Finding ways to insulate the egg to protect it from absorbing the full force and impact generated when falling helps the egg to not break when it hits the ground.
During our “Straw Rocket” experiment our scientists investigated the effect that fins have on rocket flight by comparing two rocket designs and built a more efficient version of the rocket. STEAM Connection: Modern rocket design began near the beginning of the 20th century. While much has been learned and rockets have grown larger and more powerful, rocket designs are still improving. Engineers developing new rockets must control variables and consider failure points when improving rocket designs.
