Outdoor Classroom
In STEM we decided to create an outdoor classroom so students have a multipurpose space to work or enjoy various activities. The classroom should include a place to sit and write and a shade structure. During the project we designed a hot water heater and also conducted a wind turbine lab. We also took a client needs survey and did a materials testing lab to see what we would need in the outdoor classroom.
Hot Water Heater
We were given the task to construct a water heater. To start, we figured out what angles we would need to harvest the most sunlight. Then we got a list of materials and made blueprints. We used Mylar foil to reflect the sunlight on to the copper wire so the heat would go there, and we used copper wire because it absorbs a lot of heat. The water heater was then tested outside on a sunny day. Our group decided that it would be best to keep cycling the water through the copper wire to get the maximum amount of heat into it. In the end, the water went from 18 degrees Celsius to 28 degrees Celsius, which is a final heat gain of 4,437 J.
Client Needs Survey
Next, we made a client needs survey so we could determine what the students and staff of San Marin High would want in an outdoor classroom. From this, we could tell what we would need to make a functional outdoor classroom. The survey can be found here.
Materials Heat Testing Lab
In order to build an outdoor classroom, we needed to test how different materials reacted around heat. We did a lab testing different materials under heat, and then cooled them off in a fridge, taking temperatures all throughout the way. The lab results can be found here
Wind Turbine Lab
The wind turbine lab was a project that challenged us to build blades for a wind turbine and record the amount of energy. First, we read an article about wind turbines to get some background. We then began to brainstorm ideas for the project. We had 2 options, horizontal wind turbines and vertical wind turbines. For each different one, different blades would be required, so we made a variety of different blades and tested them all, the best one getting up to 2.2 J. Then we made posters displaying our data also using Claim Evidence Reasoning.
Content
- Atoms are made up of protons (positive charge,) neutrons (neutral charge,) and electrons (negative charge.) The number of protons in the nucleus determine what type of element it is. When the atoms bond together they make molecules and molecules together can create compounds. To find the atomic mass, ass up the number of protons and the number of neutrons. Molecules have 3 states: Solid, Liquid, and Gas. In solid form, they are firmly bonded together. In liquid form, they are still bonded but can move around much more and bond to other molecules. In gas form they are rarely ever bonded together.
- Conduction the transfer of heat between two parts of a stationary system,caused by a temperature difference between the parts.
- Radiation the process in which energy is emitted as particles or waves.
- Convection the transfer of heat by the circulation or movement of the heated parts of a liquid or gas.
- Insulation to protect by interposing material that prevents the loss of heat or the intrusion of sound
- Angles of the Sun
- Laws of Thermodynamics 0th: If two systems are in equilibrium with a third system then both are in equilibrium with each other.
1st: energy cannot be created or destroyed
2nd: entropy will always increase
3rd: nothing will ever reach absolute zero
Why We Need to Use Less Energy
In present day, we use a lot of energy, far more than we should. Using a renewable energy source would have many benefits to not only us, but the planet. Renewable energy rarely ever has a negative byproduct, unlike burning fossil fuels or other methods of obtaining energy. More information can be seen here.
Classroom Design
When we first started to design, it was somewhat difficult, but we quickly picked it up. We decided to go with a shade structure, so we looked at and compared different angles to find the correct one. Next, we found our space and made our seating arrangement, which comfortably seats 36 people, just big enough for 1 class. Then we created blueprints for everything that was going to be included in the outdoor classroom, benches, tables, ext.
Materials List
Next, we had to come up with a presentation to make a pitch to the judges.
Materials List
Next, we had to come up with a presentation to make a pitch to the judges.
Reflection
Overall, this project went really well and was one of my favorites so far. It really tested me and taught me many new things. I learned a lot about energy and also about construction, and also about how fine details are important.
I think that overall i did pretty good on this project. The outdoor classroom project improved my group work skills a lot. I found that unlike in some of my past groups, I wasn't arguing so much for my ideas, but instead compromising with other people. Another thing I did well was work on the fine details. Unlike in other projects, I learned that small details really do affect the big picture so it is important to pay attention to them. However, I didn't manage time well. Towards the end, I was scrambling to finish the materials list and wrap up the presentation. I also don't think I was as involved with my group as I should've been. Although it wasn't to common, I did occasionally find myself being distracted from my group.
I think that overall i did pretty good on this project. The outdoor classroom project improved my group work skills a lot. I found that unlike in some of my past groups, I wasn't arguing so much for my ideas, but instead compromising with other people. Another thing I did well was work on the fine details. Unlike in other projects, I learned that small details really do affect the big picture so it is important to pay attention to them. However, I didn't manage time well. Towards the end, I was scrambling to finish the materials list and wrap up the presentation. I also don't think I was as involved with my group as I should've been. Although it wasn't to common, I did occasionally find myself being distracted from my group.