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Resources
Tangible Resources
Variety of sheet materials to test with water (roughly A4 sized), tub smaller than A4 (i.e. Tupperware box, no lid), beaker of water, Tuff Tray, paper towels.
Human Resources
Architect
Preparation
Gather materials to test; prepare stations for testing materials; arrange an architect to visit.
Goals, messages & concepts
Specific goals
- To investigate the absorbency of different materials.
- To learn what other factors are involved in the design of a building.
Specific messages
- Absorbent materials soak up liquid easily.
- Water-resistant materials resist the absorption of water, though they are not completely waterproof.
Main terms
- material properties
- absorbent
- water-resistant
- waterproof
- architect
Practices & skills
STEM practices
- Analysing and interpreting data
- Developing and using models
- Engaging in argument from evidence
- Asking questions and defining problems
- Planning and carrying out investigations
Soft skills
- Dealing with uncertainty
- Learning failure is a part of learning
- Teamwork and collaboration
Management skills
- Planning
- Use of resources
Course of activity
step 1
Students have investigated how protection from the wind will impact the material choice for their outdoor classroom. Now they will consider what else will be a big factor – the rain! The roof needs to keep precipitation out. Students will explore the difference between water absorbance and water resistance.
step 2
They will then explore what materials have these properties. Students will test a range of materials and record results on a scale.
step 3
Set up the experiment in a Tuff Tray so that it's easy to clear the water up afterwards.
- Put one sheet material over the tub and pour water over it
- After 2 minutes, remove the sheet material carefully so as not to tip any water into the tub
- Measure how much, if any, water in in the tub
- Empty the tub and repeat for each material
step 4
After carrying out the experiments, students will evaluate their results and identify which types of material would make a good roof.
step 5
Students will then have an opportunity to talk to an architect to discuss what other factors they should consider when designing a building, such as the role of foundations, construction of the structure and how to join materials together, designing a functional space, environmental considerations and cost effectiveness.