Working with Watermills

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In this activity, learners explore how watermills have helped harness energy from water through the ages. Learners work in teams of "engineers" to design and build their own watermill out of everyday items. They test their watermill, evaluate their results, and present to the group. As an extension activity, older learners may design a gear system that is powered by the watermill.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 2 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
$10 - $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
  • Water source, large basin, or sink
  • Tape
  • Stopwatch or clock
  • Measuring cup or pouring device
  • Styrofoam cylinder
  • Plastic or wooden spoons
  • Small wooden (balsa) pieces
  • Bendable wire (such as florist or craft wire)
  • String
  • Paperclips
  • Rubber bands
  • Toothpicks
  • Aluminum foil
  • Tape
  • Wooden dowels
  • Plastic or wax coated food container lids
  • Other materials as needed

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Mechanical Engineering
    • Technology
  • Physical Sciences
    • Energy
      • Potential and Kinetic Energy
      • Work and Machines
    • Motion and Forces
      • Machines
      • Gravity
      • Rotation Motion
  • 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

  • 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,