This year, I have a group of second year physics students. For the next
grading period, I'd like for them to work on some independent projects.
They have a choice between 2 different types of projects.
One project is a "building" project where they choose to build something
that is challenging and may have to take several attempts to get it right
(for example: "caterpillar" engine boat, RC wall crawler, land yacht,
etc.). In the meantime, I have them keep daily journals of their progress
and plans of what to do next.
The second type of project is a "How does it work project", where students
pick a complex mechanical device and figure out how it works (for example:
wind-up clock, combination lock, etc.). The students then make a
presentation of their device and how it works.
Has anyone done anything similar? I figure rather than "re-inventing the
wheel", I'd see if there are any ideas, suggestions, rubrics, of how to go
about doing this. If you'd like, you can email me directly at:
crvhs_dks@crestview-richland.k12.oh.us