Smooth Operator

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In this activity, learners explore surgical instrument design. Teams of learners construct surgical instruments from everyday materials. They then test their surgical instruments to determine how well they can perform a simulated “surgical procedure”.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 2 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
$5 - $10 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Simulation
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Student Resource Sheets
  • Student Worksheets
  • Shoebox
  • 3 small differently shaped objects (e.g. marshmallow, eraser, grape, noodle)
  • Dominos or small rectangular blocks
  • Pencil
  • Popsicle stick
  • Plastic spoon
  • Chopstick
  • Construction paper
  • Brass fasteners
  • String
  • Paper clips
  • Rubber bands
  • Clothespins
  • Binder clips
  • Tape

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Bioengineering/Biomedical Engineering
      • Metallurgy and Materials Engineering
    • Technology
      • Medical Technology
  • Life Sciences
    • Human Body
      • Medicine
  • Physical Sciences
    • Motion and Forces
  • The Nature of Science
    • Science as a Career
  • The Nature of Technology
    • Technology and Society
      • Impacts of Technology
      • Technology and History
    • The Design Process
      • Research and Development
      • Invention and Innovation
      • Problem Solving
      • Troubleshooting and Maintenance

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,