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The 8th grade program consists of two Technology
Learning Activities. (TLA) Each activity will take approximately two weeks to
complete.
The
first Technology Learning Activity is to design a model Hot Air Balloon that
will stay aloft the maximum amount of time. The students work in teams of two.
They begin the project by defining 10 terms related with Ballooning. The
students use a computer with a dictionary program to find the definitions. The
students are given a set of written instructions to follow. Each team will then
draw sketches of their color scheme. The next step is for the students to use a
computer assisted drawing program (Windows Paint Program) to make a printed
pattern to follow. The next step is making a gore (panel) template out of
newspaper. Next, the students use glue and 30 sheets of tissue paper to
construct their model Hot Air Balloon.
When the model is complete, the students inflate the balloons using window fan,
and check for leaks.
The students fly their balloons while tethered by fishing line. The balloons
are filled with hot air from a launch tube, and the height and length of time
they stay aloft and recorded.
The
second Technology Learning Activity is Computer Assisted Drawing (CAD). The
studentswill design a home they would like to live in. First they begin by
defining 10 vocabulary words associated with Architecture. The students, again,
use a computer with a dictionary program to find the definitions. The students
will be working individually on this project. The first step is to sketch out a
design for their house. The students are given a set of requirements they must
include in their home design. The students are encouraged to be creative and
include their own items and ideas in their designs
Next,
they are taught to use a basic, home design program on a computer. The computer
assisted drawing program, (CAD) easily allows the students to add or subtract rooms
and furniture, draw dimension lines and label rooms and items of their own
design. The program allows the students to see their design in 3D or as an over
view. They may also tour their design in virtual reality. Once the required
items are completed, as well as their own ideas, the students may change the
color and textures of walls, floors furniture or other items they have included
in their designs. When their designs are finished, they are printed out to
complete the project.