Beach Frenzy

Reducing the Warming Effect with Engineering Skills

Grades K-2

NGSS 1-PS4-3NGSS K-2-ETS1-1NGSS K-2-ETS1-2NGSS K-2-ETS1-3NGSS K-PS3-1NGSS K-PS3-2

Storyline

When RALF overheats due to excessive sun exposure, the crew will help him get better by coming up with engineering solutions to protect him from the sun's warming effect.

Students will investigate multiple solutions and how each would effect RALF's rising temperature. Then, the crew will explore modifications that could be made to their original design to further help RALF recover from overheating.

Est. time: 24 min.

Targeted Standards

NGSS 1-PS4-3 Plan and conduct an investigation to determine the effect of placing objects made with different materials in the path of a beam of light.

NGSS K-2-ETS1-1 Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.

NGSS K-2-ETS1-2 Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem.

NGSS K-2-ETS1-3 Analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.

NGSS K-PS3-1 Make observations to determine the effect of sunlight on Earth's surface.

NGSS K-PS3-2 Use tools and materials to design and build a structure that will reduce the warming effect of sunlight on an area.

3-Dimensional Science

Phenomenon

Sunlight has multiple effects on objects.

Science and Engineering Practices

Asking Questions and Defining Problems

The crew is prompted with questions to analyze the problem and find possible solutions for cooling down RALF.

Developing and Using Models

The crew evaluates various canopy models to determine which design solution best meets the criteria of protecting RALF from the sun and sand.

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

The crew analyzes data from the different canopy models to explain which one would most effectively cool down RALF.

Crosscutting Concepts

Energy and Matter

The crew must consider the effects of sunlight on RALF's temperature and how different materials could be used to help him from overheating.

Cause and Effect

The crew explores the consequences of leaving RALF exposed to the sun and sand, leading to his overheating and glitching.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

LS1.B: Growth and Development of Organisms

The mission highlights the need to protect RALF from the sun's heat, which can negatively impact his temperature and well-being.

ESS2.D: Weather and Climate

The crew addresses the impact of sunlight on RALF's temperature and how creating a canopy could provide shade and protection from the sun's rays.

ETS1.C: Optimizing the Design Solution

The crew engages in the engineering design process to improve the canopy model and create a solution that meets the specific criteria for protecting RALF.