Planting with Precision

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In this activity, learners explore how engineers work to solve the challenges of a society, such as efficient planting and harvesting. Learners work in teams to devise a system using everyday materials that can drop a sunflower or pumpkin seed every 15 cm over a 60 cm distance. Teams sketch their plans, build their system, test it, reflect on the challenge, and present their experiences to the group.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 2 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
Over $20 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Student Resource Sheets
  • Student Worksheets
  • Pumpkin or sunflower seeds (food quality)
  • Cotton batting or towel to serve as "soil"
  • Measuring tape
  • Paper cups
  • Plastic cups or bowls
  • Empty cans or bottles
  • Straws
  • Paper towels
  • Rubber bands
  • Paper clips
  • Tape
  • Soda bottle
  • Glue
  • String
  • Foil
  • Plastic wrap
  • Pens
  • Pencils
  • Paper
  • Bendable metal piping
  • Hose or tubes
  • Ruler
  • Other items as needed

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Agricultural Engineering
    • Technology
      • Agriculture and Biotechnology
  • Life Sciences
    • Diversity of Life
      • Plants
  • Physical Sciences
    • Motion and Forces
      • Machines
  • The Nature of Science
    • Science as a Career
  • The Nature of Technology
    • Technology and Society
      • Impacts of Technology
      • Technology and the Environment
    • The Design Process
      • Research and Development
      • Invention and Innovation
      • Problem Solving
      • Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Informal Categories

  • Gardening
  • Nature and Environment

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, IEEE,