One question...
do sixth graders need to be able to calculate mechanical advantage? Or is it enough for them to be able to look at a simple machine and explain how it changes the force needed, distance over which work is done, or direction in which force is applied?
I am leaning towards minimizing the math in favor of the idea.
I am leaning towards minimizing the math in favor of the idea.
posted by ms. v. at 2:46 PM
4 Comments:
Go for it!
Understanding a process is more important than calculating an answer.
It does not help if they know that 1+1=2 only to have them ask you what is a 2?
Ms. Frizzle writes:
Or is it enough for them to be able to look at a simple machine and explain...?
This is why engineering schools are dominated by Asian students who know the theory AND the calculation process.
It all depends on your learning objectives of course. But I do think, as Ms. Chalky Talk said, that it can be useful to some students to have the math. It's all a question of how your mind works. Some kids just get physics better if they can conceptualize forces and work into equations and maths.
Perhaps you could explain the maths to them but not make it an expectation on a test?
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