Tsunami Lite

Minimizing Hazards with Engineering Skills

Grades 3-5

NGSS 3-5-ETS1-1NGSS 3-5-ETS1-2NGSS 3-ESS3-1NGSS 4-ESS3-2NGSS 5-ESS3-1

Storyline

When a huge tsunami strikes on Viper 1, the crew will determine the best solutions to minimize hazards and reduce damage.

A large tsunami is about to hit a research base and large city on Viper 1. Luckily, the researchers and citizens have all been evacuated in time, but the crew needs to figure out a quick solution to minimize the impact of the tsunami's waves. Students will analyze various models to determine the best solution to quickly implement before the tsunami hits the research base. Then, as the tsunami approaches the city of Taipan, the crew will need to decide which long-term solutions should be put in place to reduce damage. The crew can't stop the tsunami from happening completely, but they can help the city be better prepared for it.

Est. time: 29 min.

Targeted Standards

NGSS 3-5-ETS1-1 Define a simple design problem reflecting a need or a want that includes specified criteria for success and constraints on materials, time, or cost.

NGSS 3-5-ETS1-2 Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

NGSS 3-ESS3-1 Make a claim about the merit of a design solution that reduces the impacts of a weather-related hazard.

NGSS 4-ESS3-2 Generate and compare multiple solutions to reduce the impacts of natural Earth processes on humans.

NGSS 5-ESS3-1 Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth's resources and environment.

3-Dimensional Science

Science and Engineering Practices

Planning and Carrying Out Investigations

The crew uses data from sensors and models to investigate the behavior of the tsunami and design solutions to protect the research base and city.

Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking

The crew applies mathematical concepts to analyze data, make calculations, and determine the best design solutions to minimize tsunami damage.

Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

The crew devises plans and implements design solutions using a combination of protective measures to reduce the impact of the tsunami.

Engaging in Argument from Evidence

The crew discusses and evaluates different design solutions based on evidence to choose the most effective approach.

Crosscutting Concepts

Patterns

The crew observes patterns in the tsunami's behavior and its impact on the research base and Neon City to find design solutions to minimize damage.

Cause and Effect

The crew explores the cause of the tsunami and its effects on the research base and city, leading to the need for protective measures.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

ESS2: Earth’s Systems

The crew studies the behavior of tsunamis, including their formation, impacts, and ways to minimize damage through coastal protection measures.

ETS1: Engineering Design

The crew uses simulation data to compare design solutions to determine the best design to reduce damage to the research facility.