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Learners play the role of materials engineers as they test the flexibility of different materials. They determine the strength-to-weight ratio of bars of these materials (e.g., steel, aluminum, wood, etc.) and discuss the advantages to using each in different scenarios. This activity can serve as a demonstration for younger students.
- 5 to 10 minutes
- 45 to 60 minutes
- $5 - $10 per group of students
- Ages 11 - 14
- Activity, Demonstration, Experiment/Lab Activity
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- Bend that Bar Worksheets (one for each student)
- A spring scale (optional), or groups take turns if fewer are available
- 1 bar 15"-18" (38-46 cm) in length and 1/8"-1/4" (3-6 mm) in diameter of each of the following: steel, aluminum, wood, plastic (if available), brass (if available), copper (if available)
- 1 Sharpie® or marker/pens to write on the bars
- Yard/meter stick
- Calculator (optional)
- Bathroom or top-loading scale to weigh individual bars
Subjects
-
Engineering and Technology
-
Engineering
- Architectural Engineering
- Metallurgy and Materials Engineering
-
Technology
- Manufacturing
-
Engineering
-
Mathematics
-
Data Analysis and Probability
- Data Analysis
- Data Collection
- Measurement
-
Data Analysis and Probability
-
Physical Sciences
- Motion and Forces
-
Structure and Properties of Matter
- Mass and Weight
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- read
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
- Rutkowski, Tom ; Conner, Alex ; Hill, Geoffrey ; Schaefer Zarske, Malinda ; Yowell, Janet
Source Collection
- TeachEngineering
Rights:
- All rights reserved, Regents of the University of Colorado, 2004
Funding Sources:
- National Science Foundation, 0226322
- Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE)
- U.S. Department of Education