Exploring the Extreme Educator Guide pdf - ER - NASA

Lesson 1: Finding the Center of Gravity Using RulersGrades K–4Objectives• To discover the center of gravity (c.g.) bybalancing a cardstock shape (twodimensionalmodel) of an F-15 ACTIVEon a ruler both longitudinally and laterally.• To demonstrate balance (state ofequilibrium) by suspending a cardboardshape of an F-15 ACTIVE from a string atthe center of gravity (c.g.).Science StandardsScientific EnterpriseScience and TechnologyScience as InquiryPhysical SciencePosition and Motion of ObjectsChange, Constancy, and MeasurementEvidence, Models, and ExplanationScience Process SkillsObservingCommunicatingMeasuringCollecting DataInferringPredictingHypothesizingInvestigatingMathematical StandardsProblem SolvingCommunicationReasoningMeasuringManagementThis lesson may be a whole class lesson. Forkindergarten and first grade students, theteacher may demonstrate using one cardstockmodel of an F-15 ACTIVE. Students in grades2-4 may each have their own cardstock modelor work in small groups of two to four sharinga cardstock model.This lesson is divided into two parts. In part 1,students draw longitudinal and lateral axes tofind the center of gravity. In part 2, studentsmay need help to suspend models. The modelsare needed for lesson 3, and part 2 may bepostponed until lesson 3 is scheduled. Allowapproximately 30 to 45 minutes to complete.The center of gravity is the average location ofthe weight of the aircraft. The mass andweight are distributed throughout the airplane.Part 1Materials and Tools• Cardstock F-15 ACTIVEs (see page 21)for each student or group• Ruler for each group• Crayon• Masking tape• ScissorsPreparationTeacher uses the pattern to trace and cut outF-15 ACTIVE models from light cardstock(see page 21). If students are capable, theycan cut out their own models.Procedure1. Ask students what they know about the F-15. (It is a highly maneuverable fightercapable of achieving Mach 2 and highaltitudes. Explain that the F-15 ACTIVEwas a special one-of-a-kind airplane flownby NASA and U.S. Air Force researchpilots for research purposes.)2. Bring out a cardstock F-15 ACTIVEmodel. Balance it flat on your finger orfist. Ask the students if they think theycould balance it too. If using one model todemonstrate, give several students achance to balance it, or distribute thecardstock F-15 ACTIVEs. Allow time forexperimentation.18High Performance Learning Activities in Mathematics, Science and TechnologyEG-2003-01-001-DFRC